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How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?

If you have persistent jaw pain, you may be dealing with a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ disorders can be hard to diagnose, as the symptoms often mimic other conditions. However, with the help of a skilled dentist, you can get to the root of the problem and find the relief you need. 

Find out how TMJ disorder is diagnosed by our Point Pleasant dentist, Dr. Zicchino, here! 

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The TMJ is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint experiences problems, it can result in various symptoms, collectively known as TMJ disorder (TMD). 

TMD can manifest in all kinds of ways, from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Symptoms can include: 

  • Jaw pain or soreness
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding when you open or close your mouth
  • Difficulty opening the mouth wide
  • Headaches, earaches, or neck and shoulder pain
  • Dizziness or ringing in the ears
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?

Clinical Examination

Your dentist will ask questions about your symptoms, such as when the pain started, its location, and what activities or movements seem to trigger it. They may also: 

  • Examine your mouth, jaw, and surrounding areas to check for signs of tenderness and swelling. 
  • Observe the range of motion in your jaw as you open and close your mouth. 
  • Palpate (gently press on) the TMJ and surrounding muscles to identify areas of pain or sensitivity. 
  • Listen for any clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you open and close your mouth. 

Imaging Tests

If your dentist suspects a more complex or underlying issue, they may order additional tests to get a clearer picture of what’s going on inside your jaw. These tests may include: 

  • X-rays: Can reveal any structural abnormalities or changes in the TMJ, like bone spurs or arthritis. 
  • Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Scans: Provide a detailed, three-dimensional view of the TMJ so your dentist can assess the joint’s structure. 
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Help identify any issues with the soft tissues, such as disc displacement or inflammation within the TMJ. 

Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity in the muscles responsible for jaw movement, which can help diagnose muscle-related TMD.

Diagnostic Tests 

In some cases, your dentist may also use specialized tests to diagnose TMD, including: 

  • Joint Vibration Analysis (Sonography): Sensors detect and analyze sounds made by the TMJ during movement, indicating joint dysfunction. 
  • Digital Bite Analysis: This measures the pressure and contact points between your upper and lower teeth to see how your bite affects the temporomandibular joint. 

Types of TMJ Pain

  1. Myofascial Pain

This type of pain is caused by the muscles and connective tissues (fascia) that control jaw movement. Myofascial pain is often associated with teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), which can lead to muscle tension and spasms.  

  1. Joint Pain (Arthritis) 

If the TMJ itself isn’t causing your pain, it may be caused by a form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. This degenerative joint condition can cause inflammation, swelling, and discomfort in the TMJ. 

  1. Internal Derangement

When the disc within the TMJ becomes displaced or the joint has other issues, it can result in a “clicking” or “popping” sound, accompanied by pain when opening and closing the mouth. 

How Do You Treat TMJ Disorder?

Once your dentist diagnoses the cause of your TMD, they can develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment options may include: 

  • Oral splints or mouth guards to reduce TMJ stress
  • Physical therapy to strengthen jaw muscles and improve motion
  • Stress management techniques like relaxation exercises
  • Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants for pain and inflammation
  • Botox injections to relax muscles and reduce clenching or grinding
  • Orthodontic adjustments or surgery, in some cases

Contact Our Point Pleasant TMJ Dentist Today! 

If you suffer from persistent jaw pain or discomfort, you could have a TMJ disorder. Coastal Dental Group provides specialized care for TMD and will work with you to find the cause and create a treatment plan, no matter how severe your symptoms are. 

Call 732-714-1030 or contact us today to learn more! 

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!