TMJ Evaluation Process

To accurately diagnose TMJ/TMD, Dr. Caracioni will examine your patient history and conduct a clinical examination that includes:

Muscle Examination
Doctor Caracioni will gently touch the facial muscles responsible for the movements of the jaw on the sides of the temples (temporalis) and the sides of the cheeks (masseter). In patients with TMJ/TMD, this area is often tender as it includes muscles and ligaments intimately associated with jaw movement.

Movement of the Jaw
Doctor Caracioni will measure the space between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is open to its widest position (normal is 35-50 mm). Abnormalities are indicated by reduced capacity to open, opening with pain in the muscles or TMJ joints. The doctor will also access the movement of the jaw to the left and right and record maximum range.

TMJ Joint Examination
Pain or tenderness over the joint is an indication of an inflammation in the joint capsule or within the joints. The uppermost portion of the jaw (the condyle) normally rotates and moves forward as the mouth is opened wide. You can feel this yourself by placing your fingers on the condyles in front of your ears as you open wide and close. If the condyle cannot move forward and downward along the slope of the joint as you open wide, it indicates that either muscles or something within the joint is obstructing or preventing the forward movement (translation).

Electromyograph Test (EMG)
This instrument measures and analyzes the electrical activity in the muscles that move the jaw at rest and during function. In health, muscles rest with low levels of electrical activity and function with high levels of balanced activity. EMG is a painless test, which is performed using surface electrodes, like band-aids on the face, forehead, side of the head and beneath the chin.

Electrosonograph Test (ESG)
ESG records the frequency and amplitude (power) of the noise produced, as well as the position in the opening/closing at which sound is produced. The test is performed by placement of a headpiece similar to that of a head set with vibration sensors (transducers) over the two temporomandibular joints (TMJ).

Radiographic Scans
Dr. Caracioni determines what type of imaging is necessary for each patient and at what point in the diagnosis or treatment it is necessary to obtain information from imaging.

Provide Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Along with all completed computerized testing, Dr. Caracioni will analyze and assimilate all clinical examinations, tests and patient history to make the proper diagnosis and recommended treatments.

For more TMJ or TMD evaluation details or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Stefania Caracioni in Topeka, KS at 785-246-6300.

Enchanted Smiles Dentistry
Dr. Stefania Caracioni, DDS
2949 SW Wanamaker Drive
Topeka, KS 66614