Tmj what kind of doctor to see

At your first visit, a TMJ dentist will gather information about your symptoms, your background, your lifestyle, and anything you have noticed regarding your condition. The TMJ dentist will conduct a physical examination focusing on the muscles of the head and neck. Often Digital imaging such a panoramic radiograph is taken at the first visit. If future imaging is required, the TMJ dentist may request an MRI to visualize how the joint of your jaw is functioning.

After your examination, the TMJ dentist will have recommendations for you and will develop a treatment plan. You should understand that TMJ disorder is treatable but its not usually quick fix. TMJ treatment often requires followup over a period of several months, or even sometimes years, to achieve a final result. A TMJ dentist may recommend a combination of treatments. Some examples of common treatment is a bite splint, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, or bite equilibration.

If TMJ pain is left untreated, it can lead to chronic issues. That bad because its often increasingly more difficult to treat later in life. I know it can be scary to take an initial step to seeing a new healthcare provider like a TMJ dentist. However, you should know that you are making a good step forward to prevent future problems. If you have read this far you have already learned what kind of doctor to see for TMJ pain. TMD; Temporomandibular joint disorders; Temporomandibular muscle disorders; Costen's syndrome; Craniomandibular disorder; Temporomandibular disorder.

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders TMJ disorders are problems that affect the chewing muscles and joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. There are 2 matching temporomandibular joints on each side of your head.

They are located just in front of your ears. The abbreviation "TMJ" refers to the name of the joint, but it is often used to mean any disorders or symptoms of this region.

Many TMJ-related symptoms are caused by the effects of physical stress on the structures around the joint.

These structures include:. For many people with temporomandibular joint disorders, the cause is unknown. Some causes given for this condition are not well-proven. They include:. Poor posture can also be an important factor in TMJ symptoms. For example, holding your head forward while looking at a computer all day strains the muscles of your face and neck. Many people end up having "trigger points. Trigger points can refer pain to other areas, causing a headache, earache, or toothache. Other possible causes of TMJ-related symptoms include arthritis , fractures, dislocations, and structural problems present since birth.

You may need to see more than one medical specialist for your TMJ pain and symptoms. This may include a health care provider, a dentist, or an ear, nose, and throat ENT doctor, depending on your symptoms.

Your provider will also need to consider other conditions, such as infections, nerve-related problems, and headaches that may be causing your symptoms. Read as much as you can on how to treat TMJ disorders, as opinion varies widely. Get the opinions of several providers. The good news is that most people eventually find something that helps. Mouth or bite guards, also called splints or appliances, have long been used to treat teeth grinding, clenching, and TMJ disorders.

They may or may not help. These things can be related, so comprehensive treatment may be necessary, and Dr. You can call our clinic at or book your consultation on our Appointments page. Directions To Nearest Koala Location. Send Text. How May I Help You? Read Below. Call Us to Schedule a Consultation. This is why patients with TMD get confused which doctor they should go to for treatment. So, what kind of doctor do you see for TMJ pain?

Should patient with TMD seek help at their primary doctor, an ENT, a neurologist, a pain specialist or a general dentist? Khalifeh , will help you find the best doctors who treat your TMJ dysfunction. Generally speaking, patients suffering from TMJ disorder pain go to their dentist for help. As mentioned before, TMD is a complex condition with multiple underlying causes.

This is why not all TMD cases can be treated by a single specialist. As a top rated TMJ specialist, Dr.