How to prepare for a video visit about Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD)

Audience: adult

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD) affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. If you have jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or clicking sounds when moving your jaw, you may want to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider. A video visit can be a convenient way to start this conversation. During the visit, a provider can learn about your symptoms, review your medical history, and suggest possible next steps. However, some aspects of TMJ/TMD may require an in-person exam or imaging tests. Preparing for your video visit can help you get the most from your time with the provider. This includes gathering information about your symptoms, any treatments you have tried, and having a quiet space with good lighting for the call. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a substitute for emergency care or detailed physical exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden inability to open or close your mouth — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe jaw pain following an injury or trauma — get urgent medical evaluation.
• High fever with jaw pain or swelling — contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing jaw pain and related symptoms.
• Guiding through jaw exercises and self-care.
• Reviewing medical history related to TMJ/TMD.
• Providing advice on lifestyle changes to ease symptoms.
• Determining if in-person care or imaging is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical jaw joint examinations.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe jaw injuries or emergencies.
• Diagnosing complex TMJ disorders requiring specialist assessment.

What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD)?

TMJ/TMD refers to problems with the jaw joint and the muscles around it. Common symptoms include jaw pain, stiffness, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, and noises like clicking or popping when you move your jaw. These symptoms can come from injury, arthritis, or muscle tension. Understanding your symptoms helps your provider guide you toward the right care.

How a Video Visit Can Help

A video visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider about your jaw symptoms from home. They can ask questions about your pain, jaw movement, and daily habits. You might be asked to show your jaw movement on camera. The provider can suggest treatments like exercises, pain relief methods, or recommend further tests if needed. Telemedicine is a good first step for non-emergency concerns.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for TMJ/TMD

Telemedicine can:

Telemedicine cannot:

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment:

What to Expect After Your Video Visit

After the visit, your provider may:

Follow your provider’s advice and contact them if symptoms worsen.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when your jaw symptoms started and how they affect you.
• List any treatments or medications you have tried for your jaw.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with a reliable internet connection for your video visit.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone beforehand.
• Prepare to demonstrate jaw movements on camera if requested.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any jaw exercises or self-care instructions given by your provider.
• Use recommended pain relief methods as advised.
• Avoid activities that strain your jaw, such as chewing gum or wide yawning.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek in-person care promptly if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.

FAQs

What causes Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ/TMD)?

TMJ/TMD can be caused by jaw injury, arthritis, muscle tension, teeth grinding, or stress. Sometimes, the exact cause is unclear.

Can I treat TMJ/TMD at home?

Many people find relief with self-care like gentle jaw exercises, applying heat or cold, eating soft foods, and avoiding extreme jaw movements. Your provider can guide you on safe exercises.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If you have severe pain, sudden inability to open your mouth, jaw locking, or swelling with fever, you should seek in-person or emergency care immediately.

Will I need imaging tests?

Your provider may recommend imaging like X-rays or MRIs if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or if they suspect joint damage. These tests require an in-person visit.

Is jaw clicking always a sign of TMJ disorder?

Jaw clicking can be common and not always painful or serious. However, if clicking is accompanied by pain or limited movement, it’s important to discuss it with your provider.

Sources

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Jaw Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can support initial evaluation but is not a substitute for in-person care when needed. If you experience emergency symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.