clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

The three cardinal features of the disorder are (1):

  • orofacial pain - most common presenting complain, it may be  (1)
    • described as a dull, unilateral or bilateral pain (2,3)
    • frequently seen immediately in front of the tragus of the ear
    • pain may involve the temporal, cervical and occipital regions (2) but pain  radiating to the ear, temple, cheek, and along the mandible is highly suggestive of TMD (1)
  • joint noise - clicking or popping noise (3)
    • grating, grinding, or crunching - in osteoarthritis (3)
    • can be detected either by palpation or by a stethoscope placed over the temporomandibular joint
  • restricted jaw function
    • can be described as a “generalised tight feeling” commonly due to a myofacial disorder or as a sensation that the jaw suddenly 'catches', 'gets stuck', or 'locks' usually resulting from internal derangement (1)
      • locking of the jaw can be - open (inability to close fully) or closed (inability to open fully)
    • often the joint may deviate to the affected side of the mandible during opening of the mouth

Other non specific features may be present:

  • headache.
  • earaches
  • neck and shoulder pain
  • tinnitus
  • underlying stress, anxiety, depression (1,3)

Radiography may reveal degeneration of the temporomandibular joint.

Serological investigations are required if a systemic joint disease is suspected.

Reference: