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Evidence checklist

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

DC 990538 CFR § 4.150Dental/Oral

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Oral surgery or dental evaluation documenting TMJ diagnosisCritical

Records from an oral surgeon, maxillofacial specialist, or dentist documenting TMJ disorder type, jaw range of motion, clicking/locking episodes, and pain severity.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking TMJ to service (trauma, blast, dental injury)Critical

Medical opinion connecting TMJ disorder to in-service facial/jaw trauma, blast overpressure, vehicular accident, or dental injury during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Diagnostic tests and lab results

0 of 2 collected
TMJ MRI or panoramic X-ray documenting joint pathologyCritical

MRI of TMJ showing disc displacement, degeneration, or effusion; or panoramic imaging showing bony changes.

Imaging or lab facility · records request
Jaw range of motion measurementsCritical

Objective measurement of maximum unassisted vertical opening. 38 CFR § 4.150 DC 9905 Note (2) sets the normal range at 35 to 50 mm. The measurement is one of the two bases for the rating — the other is whether a physician has prescribed a texture-modified diet.

Imaging or lab facility · records request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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