Which imaging techniques should you prioritize for TMD patients? Does a panoramic radiograph hold any value? 

When should you consider taking a CBCT of the joints instead? How about an MRI scan for the TMJ?

Dr. Dania Tamimi joins Jaz for the first AES 2026 Takeover episode, diving deep into the complexities of TMD diagnosis and TMJ Imaging. They break down the key imaging techniques, how to use them effectively, and the importance of accurate reports in patient care.

They also discuss key strategies for making sense of MRIs and CBCTs, highlighting how the quality of reports can significantly impact patient care and diagnosis. Understanding these concepts early can make all the difference in effectively managing TMD cases.

Protrusive Dental Pearl: Don’t lose touch with the magic of in-person learning — balance online education with attending live conferences to connect with peers, meet mentors, and experience the true essence of dentistry!

Join us in Chicago AES 2026 where Jaz and Mahmoud will also be speaking among superstars such as Jeff Rouse and Lukasz Lassmann!

Key Takeaways:

• Imaging should follow clinical diagnosis → not replace it.
• Every imaging modality answers different questions; choose wisely.
• TMJ disorders affect more than the jaw → they influence face, airway, growth, posture.
• Think beyond replacing teeth → treatment should serve function, not just fill space.
• Avoid “satisfaction of search error” → finding one problem shouldn’t stop broader evaluation.

Highlights of this episode:

• 02:52  Protrusive Dental Pearl
• 06:01 Meet Dr. Dania Tamimi
• 09:04 Understanding TMJ Imaging
• 16:00 TMJ Soft Tissue Anatomy 
• 21:04 The Miracle Joint: TMJ Self-Repair
• 24:26 The Role of Imaging in TMJ Diagnosis
• 28:15 Acquiring Panoramic Images
• 39:35 Guidelines for Using Different Imaging Techniques
• 41:26 Case Study: Misdiagnosis and Its Consequences
• 45:46 Balancing Clinical Diagnosis and Imaging
• 50:17 Role of Imaging in Orthodontics
• 53:18 The Importance of Accurate MRI Reporting
• 58:27 Final Thoughts on Imaging and Diagnosis
• 01:00:54 Upcoming Events and Learning Opportunities