How is TMJ dysfunction diagnosed?

How is TMJ diagnosed?

There are many schools of thought as to how TMD can be diagnosed.  Coincidentally, there are many health professionals that may assist with diagnosing TMD ranging from psychologists to physicians and most commonly, dentists.


Here are some of the most common methods of diagnosing:

1. Muscle palpation - Usually done by a dentist, palpating the muscles with constant pressure can show an imbalance of forces or unnatural trigger points in the functional muscles of the jaw, including the masseter, temporalis anterior, and lateral pterygoid.
2. Electromyography of the Muscles (EMG) - more objective than palapation, the facial muscle hyperactivity can be quantified and the imbalances of muscles during functional clench can be established by an EMG device.
3. Radiography/Imaging - X-rays (static or panographic), Cephalograms (an x-ray image of the structures of the head), MRI (magnetic Resonance imaging), CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) or 'Tomo', are all examples of static images that can detect derangement and degeneration of the TMJ bony structures.  However, imaging is limited because it takes a static (still) image and does not capture the TMJ in function and movement.
4. Symptoms questionnaire/Gathered symptoms - the health professional can do an extensive exam, and by learning about all of the symptoms in combination with muscle exams.e

The bottom line is that if you think you have TMJ symptoms, you should seek professional help to get the most accurate TMJ diagnosis.  Generally speaking, dentists will have the best experience with diagnosing the disorder, but that is not always the case.  

Also, TMD is a widely disagreed upon diagnosis, usually due to the lack of objective methods used for diagnosis and the amount of weight that is placed on patient symptoms.  For example, patients may complain of headaches, ear pain, facial muscle pain, back pain, pressure in the sinuses, tooth pain, and pressure behind the eyes.  Two different doctors might diagnose this differently and formulate different conclusions.

In conclusion, be sure to do diligent research on the health professionals you are thinking of visiting in your area.  Learn more about TMJ and TMD and get your FREE TMJ Report and free newsletter at http://tmjdysfunction.net.