What is an MRI of the temporomandibular joint?
An MRI, i.e. magnetic resonance imaging, is a high-resolution imaging procedure that provides a three-dimensional image of the body areas under examination without X-rays. The patient is placed in an elongated tube in which a strong magnetic field prevails. By excitation of the hydrogen nuclei in the body cells, the different parts of the body are displayed in a black-and-white image. An MRI of the temporomandibular joint can be used to diagnose diseases and injuries in the area of the temporomandibular joint.
Indications
The indication for an MRI scan is usually made very quickly and is often not absolutely necessary. An MRI of the temporomandibular joint is often requested by an orthodontist in case of pain or problems in the jaw area. Patients often complain of pain when the jaw is moving, when chewing or at rest.
Do you yourself suffer from pain after chewing?
- And soft tissues are examined. Congenital malpositions can be precisely differentiated. In addition, an MRI can be performed to search for tumors, cysts or metastases. With the help of the MRI image, the orthodontist can also better assess the possible access routes and risks during an operation.
TMJ Arthrosis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which wear and tear of the cartilage of the joint is caused by many years of incorrect loading. It usually occurs in older people, but a genetic variant can also occur in earlier years. Arthrosis is usually manifested by pain in the joint area when chewing or moving – later also at rest.
Furthermore, the pain can also spread and lead to back and neck pain. The diagnosis is usually made by an orthodontist with the help of an X-ray. Only in rare cases is the additional performance of an MRI of the temporomandibular joint useful. There are several approaches for treatment.
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