Diagnostics
Panoramic Radiograph
A panoramic radiograph shows a panorama of the jaws and some of the associated structures. It is used as a screening film to initially rule out such things as tumors, abscessed teeth, missing teeth, large cavities, fractures, etc. Dentists will often take this type of film every few years to evaluate for these things as well as evaluation of bone loss around the teeth or periodontal disease.
Study Models
Impressions of the teeth may be taken in order to evaluate your bite and monitor any changes to your bite. These same study models are used when we make a splint if that is appropriate for your care.
Transcranial
In addition to a panoramic radiograph, transcranial x-rays will usually be taken. Transcranial x-rays are used to get a better idea of joint structure and possible arthritis changes which can help the doctors to better understand your TMJ problem.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Many of our patients are referred for an MRI study of the TM joints. MRI is the only way to confirm that a disc is out of place in the jaw joint (disc displacement without reduction or jaw locking). MRI allows soft tissue such as the TMJ disc to be imaged where CT and normal x-rays do not. MRI uses strong magnets to affect the tissues, and a computer is able to interpret this information into images. As such, no x-rays are used in MRI and it is therefore very safe. There are some precautions with MRI and patients with certain types of pacemakers or certain surgically implanted devices may not be able to get an MRI.