Suppurative infections should be aspirated or incised. Once the infection is controlled, jaw-opening exercises help prevent scarring and limitation of function. Pain, tenderness, and limitation of motion occur. Occasionally, patients complain of stiffness, grating, or mild pain. Crepitation results from a hole worn through the disk, causing bone grating on bone to be heard and felt.
Joint involvement is generally bilateral.
X-rays may show flattening and lipping of the condyle. Treatment is symptomatic. Pain, swelling, and limited movement are the most common findings. In children, destruction of the condyle results in mandibular growth disturbance and facial deformity. Ankylosis may follow.