Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) / maxillofacial region is a non-invasive, high-precision imaging exam that allows detailed visualisation of the soft tissues and bony structures of the face and jaw (including the TMJ, articular disc, masticatory muscles, salivary glands and nerves).
It is particularly useful in the assessment of temporomandibular dysfunction, persistent facial pain, jaw clicking/locking, inflammation and suspected lesions in the maxillofacial region.
What is a Temporomandibular Joint / Maxillofacial MRI?
MRI is a diagnostic imaging exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce high-resolution images.
In the TMJ and maxillofacial region, it allows a very detailed study of soft tissues (such as the articular disc and muscles), joint structures and facial soft tissues – often with greater sensitivity than X-ray or CT for soft-tissue abnormalities.
What is the price of a TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI?
The price of a Temporomandibular Joint / Maxillofacial MRI is €275 when performed privately. However, you may have it through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: if the TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays the fee of €30;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance providers: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans;
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to have the exam at very competitive rates. For the TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI, the protocol price is €220.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you intend to use.
Learn more about the price of MRIs.
How is it performed?
The patient lies on their back, with the head supported and stabilised in a specific coil for the study of the maxillofacial region and/or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Images are acquired in different planes and with thin slices, to ensure a complete assessment of bony structures and soft tissues.
When assessing the TMJ, it is common to perform sequences with the mouth closed and with the mouth open, to analyse the relationship between the mandibular condyle and the articular disc, as well as its behaviour during movement. In some cases, a small device may be used to help keep the mouth open during part of the exam.
Intravenous contrast may be required, mainly in inflammatory, post-surgical or oncological situations.
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The exam takes between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the protocol and whether contrast is needed. During this time, it is important to remain still.
What does it detect?
A TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI can help identify, among others:
- Articular disc abnormalities (e.g., disc displacement, with/without reduction);
- Degenerative TMJ changes (e.g., osteoarthritis) and signs of joint overload;
- Joint effusion, synovitis and signs of inflammation (including in a rheumatological context);
- Changes in the masticatory muscles;
- Soft-tissue lesions/infections (e.g., facial cellulitis, abscesses) and inflammatory changes;
- Nodules/tumours in the maxillofacial region and salivary glands (depending on the clinical indication);
- Traumatic sequelae and post-surgical changes;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Your doctor may recommend a TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI in situations such as:
- Jaw/TMJ pain, persistent facial pain, or pain while chewing;
- Clicking, crepitus, limited mouth opening, or episodes of jaw “locking”;
- Suspected temporomandibular dysfunction and assessment of the articular disc;
- Suspected inflammation/infection in the maxillofacial region;
- Assessment of masses/nodules in the face or salivary glands;
- Pre-operative planning and post-surgical follow-up (when indicated);
- Among others.
Preparation and guidance for a TMJ / Maxillofacial MRI
Before having an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. In exams with contrast, a 3-hour fast is generally required (confirmed at the time of booking). |
| Arriving early | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take important, essential medication with a small amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g., earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hair clips, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Information | Bring previous exams, relevant clinical information and your most recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not insert the implant, as it will need to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring documentation describing the device and its material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform the team if you use a hearing aid, as it will need to be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform the team if you use dental prostheses, as they will need to be removed before the exam. Also inform the team if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform the team if you wear braces/orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI scans in people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g., cochlear implants); the exam is recommended in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD radiology technologist responsible for your exam. You will also have an alert system available that you can activate if you need assistance.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure good-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be available to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you may return to your normal routine.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
The Temporomandibular Joint / Maxillofacial MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070–060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)