Advanced Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging service at Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, an NABL & NABH Accredited Diagnostic Centre offering X-ray TM Joints with Open Mouth. Special X-rays of the temporomandibular (TM) joints (the joints binding the lower jaw to the upper) are taken. The “open-mouth” view helps assess the movement of the mandibles during mouth opening to help assess the selected abnormality of the jaw joints.

About X-Ray TM Joints Open Mouth View

Temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are found in front of the ears on both sides of the face. These help them to move their mouth for chewing, speaking and when they want to open their mouth wide or narrow. An X-ray TM Joints Open Mouth View is taken with the mouth open to give a better view of the position of the condyles of the lower jaw in comparison to the TM joint structures. It may be ordered if your doctor thinks there is something wrong with your jaw, how it fits into the sockets, or the bones of your TMs.

What is X-Ray TM Joints Open Mouth View?

X-ray imaging uses a controlled amount of ionising radiation to produce images of bones and joints. TMJ view is when the patient opens the mouth wide as instructed and sees an open-mouth skeletal view of the image that shows the location of the mandibular condyles. It may be images of either of the TM joints depending on the imaging protocol. The examination may demonstrate selected bony abnormalities and condylar positioning, but it does not provide detailed assessment of the joint's soft tissues or articular disc.

Common Reasons for X-Ray TM Joints Open Mouth View

• Restricted Jaw Movement: The test will evaluate the ability to open your mouth very wide.
• TM joint pain: Assessing pain in either side of the TM joints (ears).
• Clicking or Popping Sounds: Assessment of isolated abnormalities of any bones or joints associated with jaw movement.
• Aids assessment of condylar positioning on suspicion of Displacement: Suspected Joint Displacement.
• Consultation about selected bony abnormalities following facial and/or jaw trauma.
• Asymmetrical Jaw Movement: Investigation of differences in movement between the two sides.
• He or she will assess some quality of bone changes that may impair the TM joints: Suspected Degenerative Changes.
• Pre-treatment Assessment: This can be requested during the screening of a previously diagnosed jaw joint condition.

Conditions Evaluated

Mandibular Condyle Position

The open-mouth view helps assess the position of the mandibular condyles relative to the surrounding joint structures when the mouth is open. It might give information that is helpful as to their relationship to the surrounding bony joint structures.

Temporomandibular Joint Alignment

The exam may offer proof for some of the abnormalities of alignment and/or position of the TM joints. Analyses of the results in terms of their symptoms and physical examination.

Bony Joint Abnormalities

X-rays will reveal some bone changes around the joint(s) and in the condyle of the lower jaw. If the results are not as clear, then further investigations may be warranted.

Degenerative Joint Changes

Degenerative changes may be visible on X-rays, including bony irregularity, flattening, or remodelling of the mandibular condyles.

Jaw Movement-Related Abnormalities

Selection of abnormalities of condylar movement where open and closed mouth views are available, comparing the position of the dental arches may offer some information. Just performing a test X-ray on the jaw doesn't necessarily reveal the cause of any clicking, locking, or limited movement.

Post-Traumatic Changes

After certain injuries involving the jaw/facial area, TMJ radiography may be helpful to make an external diagnosis of the abnormality. If a detailed assessment of facial fractures is required, it may be better to have an imaging test, like a CT scan.

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy is an Advanced NABL & NABH-accredited diagnostic centre, which conducts all kinds of radiology, nuclear medicine, and pathology-related services. Our imaging services focus on proper positioning of the patient for the image, excellent diagnostic images, patient comfort, and ensuring the image is communicated to the doctor/dentist, so they can accurately assess the condition of the jaw joint.

Book Your X-Ray TM Joints Open Mouth View

If your doctor or dentist has recommended an X-ray TM Joints Open Mouth View, please call Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy to schedule an appointment and/or examination. Bring your prescription with you and your prior imaging results of your TMJ and jaw.