1. Look for Obvious Signs
Many doctors and dentists diagnose TMJ by observing the presence of certain symptoms. These include pain in the neck, at the base of the ears and in the lower back of your head; wear of the teeth (especially if no other symptoms of misalignment are present); difficulty opening the jaw completely; and popping or grinding sounds when opening the mouth widely. Many of these symptoms are the same as those experienced by migraine sufferers, so it's important that your doctor examine your case and decide whether you need further studies to determine the true cause of your pain.
2. Be Prepared to Undergo a Series of Tests
TMJ is difficult to diagnose because people experience pain and discomfort not only at different intensities, but also in different parts of their head, face and neck. Depending on what the doctor is able to observe, he may recommend x-rays or a CAT scan to rule out other more serious problems related to the nerves or the joints around the joint. MRIs, tomographies and motion performance studies can also be used to observe the condition of the jaw muscles.
3. Visit Your Dentist
Your dentist may be able to diagnose TMJ more easily than your doctor. The pain of TMJ can masquerade as many other things, from migraine to osteoarthritis. Patterns of wear and abrasion on your tooth enamel, however, can help your dentist make a positive diagnosis. Your dentist might also fit you with an appliance to wear at night to prevent bruxism, or tooth grinding, which is a common cause of TMJ pain.
4. Evaluate Your Lifestyle
Stress is one of the most common causes of TMJ, as it strains the muscles of the neck, shoulders and face and often leads to tooth grinding. If there is a significant level of stress in your life, that may indicate a diagnosis of TMJ. You can also experience TMJ if you consistently eat foods that are hard to chew, such as crusty bread or jerky, or if you habitually chew gum.
