How Dr. Nojan Uses CT Scans to Help Diagnose TMJ Disorders in New York City
When it comes to jaw pain, clicking, or limited movement, or any other TMJ disorders, getting the right diagnosis early makes all the difference. At our Manhattan office, Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari uses advanced cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to help identify TMJ disorders. This powerful imaging tool gives us a clearer, more detailed look at your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) than standard X-rays, allowing for faster, more accurate treatment planning.
What Is a CT (CBCT) Scan for TMJ?
A CBCT scan is a special type of CT scan designed for the head and neck. Unlike a flat two-dimensional X-ray, a CBCT creates a three-dimensional image of the jaw joint. This lets us see fine details of the bones, joint spaces, and alignment—areas that are often missed on regular dental X-rays.
Why Early Detection Matters
TMJ problems can start small and progress over time. With CBCT scans, we can catch early changes such as:
- Subtle wear and tear in the joint
- Small bone irregularities or early arthritis
- Narrowing of the joint space
- Asymmetries between the right and left joints
Detecting these changes early helps us treat TMJ disorders before they become more painful and harder to manage.
How CT Scans Improve Diagnosis and Treatment
A CBCT scan is especially useful if you’re experiencing symptoms like:
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in your jaw
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Limited ability to open or close your mouth
- Headaches, earaches, or facial pain linked to jaw movement
With this detailed imaging, Dr. Bakhtiari can confirm what’s happening inside your joints and create a personalized treatment plan. Whether that means monitoring changes over time, prescribing conservative therapies, or considering advanced options, CBCT gives us the confidence to move forward with the right approach.
CBCT vs. Other Imaging Options
While MRI scans are best for viewing soft tissues like cartilage or the jaw disc, CBCT remains the gold standard for evaluating bone changes in TMJ disorders. In many cases, Dr. Bakhtiari may recommend CBCT first to get a baseline view of the joint structure, especially if your symptoms point to bone involvement.
TMJ Imaging in Midtown Manhattan
For patients across New York City plus those traveling from Long Island or states like Connecticut—Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari offers in-office CBCT scans as part of comprehensive TMJ evaluation. By combining advanced imaging with expert clinical care, we help patients get answers quickly and start on the path to relief.
Schedule Your 1st TMJ Consultation & Get A Complimentary Low-Radiation CT Scan
If you’ve been living symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or clicking joints, don’t wait until this gets worse. Early diagnosis is key. Contact our Park Ave office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Nojan Bakhtiari, a board-certified TMJ and orofacial pain specialist in NYC.
