Screening for TMD should be an essential part of a routine dental and medical examination.

A TMD screening evaluation may include:

A history of jaw pain, headache, neck ache, noises in the TMJs, catching or locking of the jaws, injuries to the jaw, head, neck and prior TMD orofacial pain treatment.

A screening exam may include measurements of jaw opening and side-to-side movements, jaw deviation on opening, palpation (pressure applied with the fingers) of the TMJs, jaw, head and neck muscles to localize painful areas and identify joint noises. Evaluation of the gums, oral soft tissue and teeth, and making a record of disease, excessive tooth wear and general symmetry of the jaw, face and head may also be done. If significant findings for TMD are identified, a more comprehensive history and clinical examination should be conducted.

Comprehensive TMD Evaluation

The comprehensive TMD evaluation may include:

• Comprehensive history of all jaw, head, and neck symptoms, medical history, dental history, personal history, family history and psychological history.

• Comprehensive physical examination of the TMJs, cervical spine, muscles of the jaw, head and neck, neurological and neurovascular structures, teeth, gums, and oral hard and soft tissues.

• Additional tests may be needed such as diagnostic imaging (computed tomography).