Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders is often complex and therefore should be conducted by oral and maxillofacial surgeons -- experts in the field of the mouth, teeth and jaw. An accurate diagnosis of TMJ is very important before starting a treatment plan.

Proper diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical, including careful assessment of your teeth and function of your jaw joints and muscles. Imagining tests, such as X-rays of your teeth and jaw, may be taken. And in some cases, a "cast" of your teeth may be made to see how your bite fits together.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007