Which finding would you expect in a patient with TMJ dysfunction?

• A. Pain with jaw movement
• B. Increased salivation
• C. Crepitus in the joint during movement
• D. Tooth enamel wear

Answer: (C)

TMJ dysfunction often involves abnormal movement of the joint surfaces and the articular disc. When the condyle slides over worn or irregular cartilage or a displaced disc, moving the jaw produces a grinding or crackling sensation and sound—crepitus. This intra-articular noise or feel is a classic sign of joint pathology within the TMJ and reflects changes inside the joint itself, not just muscle strain. Pain with jaw movement can occur, but crepitus specifically signals the joint surfaces or disc are interacting abnormally. Other options like increased salivation or enamel wear aren’t direct indicators of the joint pathology seen in TMJ dysfunction.