The Difference Between Screening and Diagnosis

It is important to understand that a screening is a preliminary step, while a diagnosis is a formal clinical finding. Screening helps identify risks and warning signs, whereas a diagnosis provides the evidence needed to begin professional TMJ treatment in Denver.

Once we move past the screening phase, our team gathers detailed data to create a personalized recovery plan. This thorough process ensures that we address the actual cause of your pain, rather than just managing the symptoms you experience daily.

How Our Team Diagnoses TMJ Disorder

A formal diagnosis is a comprehensive process that allows us to move beyond guesswork and see exactly what is happening inside your jaw joints. We combine traditional clinical exams with modern technology to build a complete map of your oral and maxillofacial health.

Our diagnostic process is designed to be comfortable, non-invasive, and informative for the patient. We want you to understand exactly why you are experiencing pain so you can feel confident in the solutions we recommend.

Comprehensive Physical Examination

We begin by listening to your experience and reviewing your medical history to understand how your pain affects your life. During the exam, we observe your jaw’s range of motion and look for signs of restriction or deviation when you open and close your mouth.

We also use palpation to feel the muscles and joints for signs of tension, swelling, or vibrations. This hands-on approach helps us identify localized areas of discomfort and determine which muscle groups are overworking to compensate for a joint imbalance.

The Role of i-CAT 3D Imaging in TMJ Care

Traditional dental X-rays provide only a flat, two-dimensional view, which can hide structural issues within the complex jaw joint. We utilize i-CAT Cone Beam 3D imaging to give a high-definition view of your jaw, teeth, and airway from every possible angle.

This technology is vital for an accurate diagnosis because it reveals issues that are invisible on standard scans. The i-CAT system allows us to observe:

  • Bone degradation or osteoarthritis within the joint
  • The precise position of the jaw joint in relation to the skull
  • Narrow or obstructed airways that may contribute to sleep apnea
  • Congenital irregularities or signs of past trauma fractures

Measuring Function with K7 and TENS Therapy

To understand how your jaw functions during movement, we utilize the K7 evaluation system to measure muscle activity and jaw sounds. This system provides objective data on the exact path of your jaw’s motion and the amount of effort your muscles use to rest.

Before taking these measurements, we often use TENS therapy to deliver gentle electrical impulses that relax overworked jaw muscles. When your jaw is fully relaxed, we can identify its most natural and balanced position, which is essential for designing an effective custom orthotic.

Take Our Online TMJ Screening Quiz

Many people suffer from symptoms like migraines, ear ringing, or neck pain without realizing these issues are connected to their jaw health. We provide a convenient online screening tool to help you determine if you are at risk for TMJ disorder.

By answering a few simple questions, you can gain better insight into whether a professional evaluation is the right next step for you. You can take our TMJ screening quiz right now to see if your symptoms align with common jaw joint issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Diagnosis

We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health journey. These common questions address the diagnostic process and the technology we use to ensure your care is built on a solid foundation.

Symptoms of TMJ disorder are often widespread and can mimic other conditions like ear infections or sinus problems. Because the pain often radiates to the head, neck, and shoulders, many providers overlook the jaw joint as the primary source of the issue.

Our evaluations are designed to be gentle and non-invasive. While we may need to touch areas that are currently tender to identify muscle strain, tools like TENS therapy are used specifically to provide relaxation and relief during your appointment.

A comprehensive diagnostic appointment typically takes longer than a routine dental check-up because of the detailed imaging and functional testing involved. We take the time necessary to ensure we have all the data needed to develop a successful treatment plan from the start.

In most cases, an initial scan is sufficient to establish a baseline and plan your treatment. We may recommend follow-up imaging in the future to monitor the joint’s health or track structural improvements as your treatment progresses.

Schedule Your Evaluation in Denver Today

If your screening results or persistent pain suggest a jaw imbalance, the next step is to consult with Dr. Kevin Berry and our experienced team. We are dedicated to helping you find the answers you need to live a life free from chronic jaw pain.

Click the button below to find a time that suits you, or call our office directly at (303) 691-0267. We look forward to helping you take the first step toward lasting relief.