Unlocking the Jaw: How MRI Helps Diagnose TMJ Disorders

By Michael B. Rogers, DDS

Jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth can be signs of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. These issues affect the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull and can lead to chronic discomfort if left untreated. Because the joint involves both bone and soft tissue, getting an accurate diagnosis is essential. This is where MRI technology plays an important role.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can have many underlying causes. Sometimes it stems from injury or arthritis. Other times it may be related to teeth grinding, muscle tension, or a misaligned bite. Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and clicking or popping sounds when the jaw moves. In more advanced cases, it can become difficult to eat or speak comfortably.

Pinpointing the source of the problem requires more than a visual exam or basic imaging. That is because many TMJ conditions involve soft tissues such as the disc that cushions the joint and the surrounding muscles and ligaments. These cannot be clearly seen with standard x-rays.

How MRI Provides a Clearer View

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, offers one of the most detailed ways to evaluate soft tissues. While x-rays and CT scans focus on the bones, MRI uses magnetic fields to create high-resolution images of muscles, discs, and connective tissue. This makes it possible to assess whether the disc inside the TMJ is in the correct position, whether there is inflammation, or if there are signs of damage or deterioration.

MRI is especially valuable when diagnosing internal derangements, which occur when the disc shifts out of place. This is a common cause of jaw locking, clicking, or chronic discomfort during everyday jaw movement.

Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters

When a TMJ disorder is diagnosed with MRI, treatment can be far more targeted. Rather than relying on general approaches, providers can tailor care to the specific issue at hand. This might involve a custom bite appliance, physical therapy, or minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve pressure and realign the joint. MRI also helps rule out other conditions that might mimic TMJ symptoms, which is important for building the right treatment plan from the beginning.

Our Technology-Driven Approach at Fairlington Dental

At Fairlington Dental, we believe that exceptional outcomes begin with precision. For patients experiencing jaw discomfort or symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, we may recommend advanced imaging such as MRI to get a complete picture of what is happening beneath the surface. This allows us to design personalized care plans that address the root cause and support long-term comfort.

If you are dealing with persistent jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, MRI can provide answers that lead to true relief. With the right tools and a thoughtful approach, we help patients move beyond symptoms and into lasting solutions.