How to Select a TMJ Doctor

A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problem can cause severe pain, not only in the jaw, but in the neck, head and back. TMJ patients' jaw joints are unaligned, which makes the jaw unbalanced. Many patients say selecting a doctor skilled in treating TMJ is as difficult as coping with the problem itself. Because TMJ can be a long-term health concern, it's important to select a doctor with whom you feel comfortable.

Instructions

1. Consult with your regular dentist before looking for a TMJ doctor. Your dentist should be able to diagnose whether or not you have the disorder after a thorough exam and detailed history of your jaw symptoms.

2. Ask your regular dentist for a referral to one or more board certified maxillofacial surgeons. There is no recognized "TMJ specialist." A maxillofacial surgeon is a dentist who treats the mouth and jaw. It is important to consult a surgeon, since correction of the jaw imbalance by surgery is sometimes an option.

3. Read Internet message boards for comments about dentists in your area who treat TMJ. You may also find a TMJ support group in your community. Other patients may be your best source when selecting a TMJ doctor.

4. Seek services from other health care providers to treat non-dental TMJ related symptoms. You may need to see a physical therapist or a massage therapist. Since stress can contribute to TMJ symptoms, you may also need to consult with a psychotherapist, psychologist or psychiatrist to learn stress control techniques. tips. A doctor who specializes in pain management may also be a good addition to your treatment team. Your TMJ doctor can give you referrals to specialists.

5. Check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers the doctors you are considering. Insurance doesn't always cover TMJ therapy, so it's important to consider the cost of treatment.

6. Get a second, third or even fourth opinion if you're hesitant about anything your TMJ doctor recommends. Since there is no cure for the TMJ disorder, most doctors focus on ways to control pain. The National Institute of Health recommends TMJ patients try non-invasive treatments before going to more aggressive measures, such as surgery.