TMJ Disk Displacement

This patient had chronic problems with her temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with pain and "clicking" with jaw movement. The MRI scan shows that the cartilage (arrow) that is normally located between the mandibular condyle (jaw bone) and temporal fossa (part of the skull) is dislocated anteriorly. When the patient opens her mouth, the disc "pops" back into place, causing a palpable "click". MRI is an excellent way to look at the TMJ, and helps dentists and oral surgeons diagnose problems of this joint.