TMJ - Special Test Flashcards
(4 cards)
TMJ Compression Test
purpose: TMJ dysfunction or joint pathology
perform: Patient seated or supine. Examiner applies upward pressure through mandible into joint.
pain: Pain or discomfort = positive
Mandibular Deviation
Purpose: Assess side of hypomobility or muscular dysfunction.
How to Perform: Have the patient slowly open their mouth.
Positive Result: Jaw deviates toward the hypomobile or affected side.
Bite Test (Cotton Roll Test)
Purpose: Differentiate between muscular and joint pathology.
How to Perform: Patient bites on a cotton roll on one side.
Positive Result: Pain on same side = muscular; pain on opposite side = joint issue.
Joint Auscultation (Clicking or Crepitus)
Purpose: Identify disc displacement or joint degeneration.
How to Perform: Palpate or place stethoscope over TMJ during opening/closing.
Positive Result: Clicking = disc displacement; crepitus = degeneration.
