THE IMPORTANCE OF ARTICULAR MOBILITY TESTING DURING TMJ CLINICAL EXAMINATION TECHNIQUE

Abstract

Introduction The examination of the temporomandibular joint represents a primary phase in the clinical evaluation of any patient, weighing extremely heavy especially when diagnosing the dysfunctional syndrome. There are 3 directions of examination, but the last one in almost unknown, used neither, although is so important for complex oral rehabilitation. Goal So, we want to describe this method, to make aware all practitioners of its importance. During objective examination of TMJ, we must to do inspection, palpation, auscultation and also to explore the vertical mobility (open-close movements) or the horizontal mobility (propulsory, retropulsory, laterality, latero-pulsory movements). Knowing normal values of measured amplitudes, we can recognize TMJ pathology. Conclusion: Clinical examination of TMJ must be done correctly and following all steps, in this manner the practitioner will be able to detect all evident or less evident signs and to formulate the most precise diagnosis