Diagnosis of TMD

TMJ diagnosis

Assessing TMD

To diagnose this dysfunction we have to use X-ray, CT scans and often an MRI in combination with a Jaw Joint Vibration Device (JVA), and jaw tracker to record the movement of the jaw and T-scan to analyze the occlusion. We take a detailed and comprehensive medical history and would appreciate any help with providing us with the background or related material given to you by other professionals. It is important to us to know the onset of the pain, as well as the severity, duration and frequency.

Comprehensive Physical Examination

A typical exam will likely include but not be limited to the following:

  • Postural evaluation and photos to go with it.
  • Determination of ascending or descending cause to the TMJ problem. Is the jaw the cause of your problem or THE FOOT? Believe it or not, they are related and one has to be separated from the other in order to achieve the correct treatment.
  • Defining the position of the upper jaw and its relationship to the lower jaw.
  • Examining the occlusion of the teeth, identifying the wear pattern on teeth and taking the impression to be used for more thorough and detailed analysis of the patient’s condition.
  • Examination to determine the level of neurological involvement in each individual case.

We examine all 12 cranial nerves that in one way or another will have some degree of involvement or lack of it.

  • Range of motion (ROM) in each patient will be checked and measured. It is of absolute importance to have a reference and starting point for the treatment ahead.
  • We are equipped with non-invasive technology from Jaw Joint Vibration Analyzer (JVA/JT) to (EMG) Electromyograph T-scan to analyze the occlusion, in order to provide our patients with as little stress as possible during the examination and achieving objective proof of the TMD for them.