Tests
1st tests to order
clinical diagnosis
Test
Usually no tests are needed.
Result
Typical symptoms and signs of TMD. The four characteristic features are pain, joint noises, masticatory muscle tenderness, and limited mandibular function
Tests to consider
MRI
Test
Supports a clinical diagnosis of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint. Findings do not correlate with treatment outcomes.
Result
disk displacement
CT or cone-beam CT
Test
May be used to evaluate fractures and abnormalities of bones and to aid in determining the subtype of TMDs.[17][46] Cone-beam CT has lower-dose radiation than traditional CT and produces a superior image.[47][48]
Result
cone-beam CT shows flattening of the condyle, osteophyte formation, erosion of the cortical bone, cortical bone changes, sclerosis, condylar fractures, joint space changes
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