What is the most likely diagnosis for a patient experiencing painful clicking while opening their mouth?

• A. Joint osteoarthritis
• B. Early stage anterior disc displacement
• C. Temporomandibular joint osteonecrosis
• D. Masseter muscle spasm

Answer: (B)

The diagnosis of early stage anterior disc displacement is characterized by the presence of painful clicking or popping sounds during the opening and closing of the mouth. This condition occurs when the articular disc within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is displaced anteriorly, affecting the normal movement of the jaw. As the patient opens their mouth, the disc may not be properly aligned or may catch on surrounding structures, leading to the characteristic clicking sound, often accompanied by pain due to the strain or inflammation in the joint.

In early stages, the clicking may not be constant, and the presence of pain indicates a potential issue with the TMJ. It's important to note that while other conditions may cause discomfort in the jaw or contribute to altered movement, the specific combination of clicking and pain when opening the mouth strongly points toward early stage anterior disc displacement. This condition is also more likely to respond to conservative treatment, making it a common focus in diagnosing TMJ disorders.