Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical assessment: a detailed history (symptoms, duration, triggering factors), functional examination of the jaw (range of opening, deviation, tenderness, joint sounds) and, where relevant, an assessment of the dental occlusion. Imaging is frequently used to support the diagnosis — MRI is particularly valuable for evaluating soft tissue and articular components, while CT/CBCT provides a detailed assessment of bony structures. Accurate diagnosis is essential for distinguishing between conditions that share similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches.