Research shows that there is usually more than one factor that is responsible for TMJ-related pain and dysfunction. We know from our clinical experience that this is true. Because TMD can coexist with other medical conditions, diagnosis can be challenging. In addition, the underlying causes of your symptoms may not be immediately apparent. That is why it is important to consult a dentist with advanced training in orofacial and craniofacial pain, and credentials you can trust.

COMMON TMD SYMPTOMS: Do you suffer from any of these?

• Headaches
• Jaw joint clicking or popping
• Facial pain
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Jaw joint pain
• Worn, loose or sensitive teeth
• Limited ability to open and close your mouth
• Difficulty eating, chewing or swallowing
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Pain whenever you talk or smile
• Earaches (or ear congestion)
• Poor posture
• Ringing in your ears
• Non-restful sleep

What should a TMD Examination include?

TMD may have a single cause or it may be multifactorial. That's why a thorough and complete clinical evaluation -performed by a qualified dental professional - is essential. At a minimum, this exam should include:

• Medical History
• Dental History
• Personal & Family History
• Physical Evaluation

To confirm a TMD diagnosis, it may also be necessary to:

• Complete diagnostic imaging
• Schedule you for an MRI.
• Consult with your doctors.

Who will benefit?

Anyone who suffers from chronic head, neck and/or facial pain will benefit from a thorough exam and, if indicated, treatment by a dentist who specializes in TMJ-related pain and dysfunction. This is especially true if standard medical evaluation and diagnostic testing has failed to reveal the cause of your head, neck or facial pain. Today, 75% of the U.S. population has experienced signs or symptoms of TMD. An estimated 5-10% will require specialized dental and oral therapies, with less than 3% of these patients requiring surgery in order to gain relief.

Early Diagnosis is Key

TMJ is often a chronic, degenerative disorder. Jaw-joint related pain and dysfunction worsens over time. As symptoms become more severe, your treatment options also become more limited. That's why we believe TMD should be ruled out as part of the differential diagnosis of all patients with head, neck and/or facial pain.

We treat the cause of a patient’s TMD problem (not just the symptoms). While there is no "cure" for TMD, there are proven effective therapies that can help you control TMJ-related pain, regain proper jaw joint function, improve your overall health and enhance your quality of life.

For each patient we develop a complete, individualized, multi-disciplinary TMJ Rehabilitation Program that successfully treats TMJ-related pain and dysfunction -without surgery or prolonged drug therapy!