Step-by-Step MRI Procedure for TMJ — What Patients Should Know

Jaw pain, clicking sounds or limited ability to open the mouth are symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Most of those who seek TMJ treatment in Ahmedabad are recommended an MRI to get a better understanding of the state of their joint. MRI enables doctors to view the soft tissues of the jaw in great detail, something that is not always achievable with routine X-rays.

This post explains the MRI for TMJ process so that patients understand what to expect and why it’s important for TMJ treatment.

Understanding TMJ and Why an MRI Is Needed

The temporomandibular joint attaches your lower jaw to your skull. It’s what allows you to speak, chew and yawn. When this joint becomes dysfunctional, it can cause pain, aching or stiffness and limit movement.

TMJ disorders can have a variety of causes.

• Teeth grinding
• Jaw injury
• Arthritis
• Disc displacement
• Stress-related muscle tension

Doctors typically recommend an MRI when symptoms are persistent or ambiguous. What does MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) look at?

• The joint disc
• Surrounding muscles
• Soft tissues
• Joint inflammation

It assists in preparing the correct TMJ treatment.

What Is an MRI for TMJ?

MRI scan of the TMJ is a non-invasive imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the jaw joint. An MRI, unlike a CT scan or X-rays, doesn’t involve the use of radiation.

It is particularly helpful to diagnose soft tissue problems, including :

• Disc displacement
• Joint inflammation
• Muscle disorders
• Early joint damage

Given that soft tissues are often associated with TMJ disorders, MRI is one of the most informative diagnostic methods.

Step-by-Step MRI Procedure for TMJ

Little wonder then that many patients feel apprehensive when going for an MRI – and not just because they’ve seen the size of those machines. Here's a very obvious step-by-step answer.

Step 1: Before the Appointment

What happens before the scan? The medical team will want to know :

• Metal implants
• Pacemakers
• Previous surgeries
• Pregnancy status

You might get asked to take off items such as :

• Jewelry
• Hairpins
• Watches
• Dentures (in some cases)

Generally, fasting is not necessary for a TMJ MRI unless contrast will be administered.

Step 2: Positioning on the MRI Table

Once you arrive at the imaging centre or another location, a technician will let you lie down on a small table.

For TMJ imaging :

• Your skull will rest gently
• A specialised head coil may be put around your head
• You will need to lie very still

In certain cases, photographs are taken with the mouth closed and open to observe joint movement.

Step 3: Going into the MRI scanner

The table then crawls through the MRI scanner, which resembles a giant tube.

During the scan :

• Other patrons' footsteps will be heard, in addition to clattering train sounds.
• Headphones or earplugs are usually included
• You have an intercom with the technician

The scan is painless. The key here is to hold still so your images aren’t blurry.

Step 4: Mouth Position Instructions

For TMJ films, the tech may instruct you to bite your teeth together in various positions.

You may be asked to :

• Keep your mouth closed
• Open your mouth slightly
• Bite on the bite block with the teeth

These images enable dentists to see the joint disc and its movement in connection to jaw motions, which is essential for properly planning TMJ therapy.

Step 5: Contrast Injection (If Necessary)

Sometimes a contrast dye (typically gadolinium) is injected into a vein to highlight inflammation or tissue changes.

It may not be necessary, depending on your needs.

If contrast is used :

• A small IV line is placed
• It's a treatment that is only slightly uncomfortable, usually.
• There have been a few, but​ allergic reactions are a possibility.

Whether you need contrast is determined by your doctor.

Step 6: Completion of the Scan

A TMJ MRI generally takes 20 to 45 minutes, or more, depending on the number of images required.

After the scan :

• You're usually able to return to normal activities right away
• No recovery time is required
• If contrast is employed, patients are often encouraged to drink plenty of water

A radiologist subsequently interprets these images.

How MRI Results Influence TMJ Treatment

When the MRI report is available, the provider examines :

• Disc position
• Movement pattern
• Presence of inflammation
• Joint condition

These data also suggest TMJ treatment may play a role. Based on these findings, the treatment of a TMJ can include one or more of the following :

• Lifestyle changes
• Jaw exercises
• Physiotherapy
• Medications
• Bite splints
• Maybe some places even just minimally invasive interventions

The aim is to tailor the treatment for an individual patient based on the specific finding seen on their MRI, not purely whether or not they are symptomatic.

Final Thoughts

An MRI of the TMJ is a highly useful and simple test that can show detailed problems with the jaw joint. Learning what each step entails in advance can reduce anxiety and make patients feel more prepared.

When TMJ symptoms are severe enough to affect a person’s life, imaging is frequently an integral aspect of diagnosis and treatment planning. Visit HealMe Pain Clinic and know your condition.