Which sign is more associated with intra-articular TMD but less typical of myofascial TMD?

Which sign is more associated with intra-articular TMD but less typical of myofascial TMD?

• A. Joint sounds such as clicks or crepitus.
• B. Diffuse myofascial pain.
• C. Normal range of motion.
• D. Tenderness of the mandibular muscles.

Answer: (A)

Audible noises from the jaw during movement point to problems inside the joint itself. When the disc is out of place and catches as the mouth opens and closes, you get a click or pop. If the joint surfaces have begun to wear, crepitus can appear with movement. These joint sounds are a hallmark of intra-articular TMJ disorders because they arise from the mechanics inside the joint, not from the surrounding muscles. Myofascial TMD, on the other hand, stems from muscle dysfunction. It typically presents with pain and tenderness in the jaw muscles, and may include muscle guarding that limits movement, but it does not usually produce sounds from the joint itself. Diffuse muscle pain is classic for myofascial TMD, and while range of motion can be normal or mildly reduced, joint noises remain the more distinctive sign of intra-articular involvement.

Audible noises from the jaw during movement point to problems inside the joint itself. When the disc is out of place and catches as the mouth opens and closes, you get a click or pop. If the joint surfaces have begun to wear, crepitus can appear with movement. These joint sounds are a hallmark of intra-articular TMJ disorders because they arise from the mechanics inside the joint, not from the surrounding muscles.

Myofascial TMD, on the other hand, stems from muscle dysfunction. It typically presents with pain and tenderness in the jaw muscles, and may include muscle guarding that limits movement, but it does not usually produce sounds from the joint itself. Diffuse muscle pain is classic for myofascial TMD, and while range of motion can be normal or mildly reduced, joint noises remain the more distinctive sign of intra-articular involvement.