TMJ disorders are not one condition — they are a family of related dysfunctions of the joint,
disc, and surrounding muscles, each requiring a different management approach.
The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) — the international gold-standard classification system — divides TMJ disorders into two main axes: Axis I (physical diagnoses) and Axis II (pain-related disability and psychological factors). Effective treatment addresses both axes — ignoring the psychological dimension is one of the most common reasons TMD treatment fails.
Physical diagnoses include: myalgia (muscle pain), myofascial pain (with referral), disc displacement with and without reduction, degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis), and subluxation. Each diagnosis has specific clinical features, specific imaging correlates, and specific treatment algorithms. Lumping all jaw pain under the label ‘TMD’ and treating empirically leads to poor outcomes.
At I Smile Clinic, Dr. Anu conducts a full DC/TMD assessment and communicates the specific diagnosis — not a vague ‘TMJ problem’ — along with a written treatment plan that explains the rationale for every recommended intervention. Patients who understand their diagnosis engage better with treatment and achieve better outcomes.
Book a consultation with our specialists and receive a personalized treatment plan.
The articular disc is displaced but returns to position on opening — causing a characteristic click. Often manageable with splint therapy and monitoring.
The disc does not reduce on opening — causing restricted mouth opening (closed lock) or, in chronic cases, a silent joint with altered bite.
Arthritic changes in the bony structures of the TMJ — causing crepitus (grating sounds), progressive pain, and bite change.
The condyle translates excessively on opening — sometimes dislocating — causing a clunking sensation and jaw locking in the open position.
Systemic inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis can involve the TMJ.
Muscle-origin TMD — the most prevalent category — presenting as jaw muscle tenderness, limited opening, and diffuse facial aching.
Structured clinical examination following the validated international protocol — standardised palpation, provocation, and measurement protocol.
Pain catastrophising, somatisation, anxiety, and depression are screened using validated questionnaires — because psychological factors predict treatment outcome as strongly as physical findings.
CBCT for bony architecture; MRI for disc position and joint fluid. Imaging is ordered based on diagnostic uncertainty, not routinely.
A written report clearly states the DC/TMD diagnosis, the evidence supporting it, and the treatment rationale. You leave the consultation knowing exactly what is wrong and why.
Complex cases requiring physiotherapy, psychology, neurology, or oral surgery are managed through coordinated referral with clear communication between all providers.
The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull. When it malfunctions, the effects ripple far beyond the jaw itself — causing pain, clicking, and restricted movement.
TMJ pain is one of the most misdiagnosed conditions in medicine. Dr. Anu's specialist training in orofacial pain means you get an accurate diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan.
Specialized treatment for TMJ disorders, facial pain, and myofascial pain. We use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause and provide targeted relief.
Our specialists will evaluate your case and design a treatment plan built around your goals.
