Crepitus in the jaw joints is most often seen in association with which condition?

• A. Osteoarthritis
• B. Acute dental caries
• C. Gingivitis
• D. Temporomandibular ligament sprain

Answer: (A)

Crepitus in the jaw joints signals degenerative changes within the TMJ, where roughened articular surfaces and possible gas or fluid movement produce a grinding or crackling sound with jaw motion. This pattern is most characteristic of osteoarthritis affecting the TMJ, due to cartilage wear and bony changes that create irregular joint surfaces. In contrast, acute dental caries and gingivitis involve teeth and gums rather than the joint surfaces and typically don’t produce joint crepitus. A temporomandibular ligament sprain can cause pain, swelling, or a disruptive click from disc movement, but the distinctive crepitus from joint surface degeneration points to osteoarthritis as the best association.