TMJ Imaging (Temporomandibular Joint) Scans Sydney
TMJ imaging is used to assess the temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull. It helps diagnose jaw pain, clicking, locking, limited movement, arthritis, and structural abnormalities. At Advicon Imaging, Medicare-eligible TMJ imaging is fully bulk-billed.
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Description of TMJ Imaging (Temporomandibular Joint)
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are vital for everyday jaw functions such as chewing, talking, and yawning. When these joints become painful or dysfunctional, targeted imaging is essential to determine the underlying cause. TMJ imaging at Advicon Imaging uses specialised X-ray and CT techniques to assess the bones, joint alignment, joint space, and structural integrity of both TMJs.
TMJ imaging is commonly requested for patients experiencing:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
- Locking or restricted jaw movement
- Suspected arthritis or joint degeneration
- Facial asymmetry
- Injury or trauma
- Pre-surgical or orthodontic planning
- The scan may include open-mouth and closed-mouth views to compare joint movement and alignment. These views help identify conditions such as disc displacement, degenerative joint disease, erosion of the joint surfaces, or structural abnormalities.
TMJ imaging is fast, low-dose, and highly effective for visualising the bony components of the joint. If soft tissue evaluation is required—such as for the articular disc—your doctor may also request an MRI, which complements CT or X-ray findings.
At Advicon Imaging, we use modern digital equipment to ensure precise TMJ visualisation with minimal radiation exposure. All Medicare-eligible TMJ scans are fully bulk-billed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMJ imaging?
TMJ imaging uses X-ray or CT techniques to evaluate the jaw joints for pain, dysfunction, or structural problems.
Why has my dentist, doctor, or specialist ordered this?
Common reasons include jaw pain, clicking, locking, suspected arthritis, trauma, or orthodontic and surgical planning.
What does the scan show?
It shows:
- Bone structure of the TMJ
- Joint space
- Movement from open to closed position
- Degeneration or arthritis
- Abnormal bone growth or erosion
Do I need preparation?
No preparation is required.
- Remove metal objects around the head (earrings, glasses, retainers, piercings).
- Inform us if you are pregnant.
Is the scan painful?
No. The process is quick and painless. For open/closed mouth images, you may be asked to follow simple jaw movement instructions.
Does it use radiation?
Yes, but the radiation dose is very low and well within safe diagnostic limits.
Will I need CT or MRI as well?
In some cases.
- CT: Best for bone detail
- MRI: Best for soft tissue, including the joint disc
Your doctor will decide if additional imaging is needed.
How long does the scan take?
Typically 5–10 minutes.
Can I drive afterward?
Yes, you can return to normal activities immediately.
When will my doctor or dentist receive the results?
Reports are usually sent within 24–48 hours.
Is this scan bulk-billed?
Yes. Medicare-eligible TMJ imaging is fully bulk-billed at Advicon Imaging.