X-Ray Jaw Joint complete
Also known as Temporomandibular X-Ray, TMJ X-Ray
This procedure is a radiograph of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the small jaw joint in front of the ear. This temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw, called the mandible, to your skull and the rest of the skeleton. The TMJ is two joints connecting the jawbone and skull on both sides of your head. The jaw joints allow your jaw to open and close so that you can speak and eat. They are also responsible for the movement and functionality of your jaw and mouth. The joints allow movement of the mandible (the whole lower jaw).
A jaw joint x-ray helps identify dislocations, fractures, structural differences, dental problems, and bone diseases such as osteoarthritis and trauma-related injuries. It is usually used to diagnose and identify a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), the name given to the jaw joints' dysfunction. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction does not have a particular cause. However, trauma to the jaw or joints is a common contributing factor. Other health conditions may contribute to the development of TMJD. These include:
- arthritis
- erosion of the jaw joint
- a habit of grinding the teeth
- structural jaw problems/congenital disabilities
The symptoms of TMJ disorders and other jaw joint conditions depend on the reason for your condition. The primary sign of TMJD is pain in the jaw and nearby areas. Other symptoms due to which your doctor may order a jaw joint x-ray may be:
- pain in the face and neck
- stiffness in jaw muscles
- difficulty in mastication or chewing
- limited mobility of the jaw
- locking of the jaw
- clicking or popping in jaw joints
- a change in jaw alignment (malocclusion)
Usually, there are no special preparations needed before this test unless your doctor tells you otherwise. However, tell your doctor if you have surgically implanted devices, such as a metal plate in your head, artificial heart valves, or a pacemaker. The x-ray technicians may require you to remove your clothing and wear a hospital gown during the procedure. They will also ask you to remove jewelry, glasses, contact lenses, dentures, and accessories before the x-ray. Be sure to inform the x-ray technician and your doctor if you are or may be pregnant. Since developing, fetuses are more susceptible to x-ray radiation than us.
An x-ray of the shoulder usually follows the following process:
- The X-ray technician will guide you into the correct position needed for the x-ray. Usually, for a jaw joint x-ray, you will be seated upright with the affected side closest to the detector and your head parallel to the detector. Depending on your doctor's request from your x-ray, the x-ray technician will guide you on whether you are to open your mouth or keep it closed.
- Body parts that are not being x-rayed may be covered with a lead apron (shield) to avoid radiation exposure.
- It is vital to remain motionless during the procedure. Movement may cause a blurry image, and you may have to get the x-ray done again.
- If you cannot stand without support or keep still, neck or head support such as a foam piece can help maintain the head position. If this is the case, you can be x-rayed while lying down.
- The technician may ask you to inhale and hold your breath during the procedure for a better x-ray image.
Once taken, your X-rays will be given to a radiologist who is a medical professional who's specially trained in reading and understanding radiographs. The radiologist will then write out a report which they will share with your primary physician. Your doctor will then discuss the report with you. A treatment plan will begin once the doctor has determined if you have a fracture, bone degeneration, or the cause of your TMJ disorder.
Related X-Rays:
Mandible 4V, Mandible Minimum, Mastoids Temporomandibular X-ray
