If individuals suspect they are experiencing pain related to the temporomandibular joint in their jaw, they should speak with a doctor specializing in TMJ disorders. A TMJ doctor will effectively diagnose and treat a person’s TMJ symptoms.
What is TMJ?
Before we address questions a person should ask regarding TMJ, let’s review what TMJ is. This jaw joint disorder affects the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. We use the TMJ throughout the day for various daily activities. This joint uses hinge and sliding movements to allow a person to talk, eat, or yawn.
When this jaw joint is out of alignment, a person will experience severe pain, discomfort, and loss of function. There are many causes for the misalignment of this jaw joint, such as malocclusion (a bad bite), pressure, missing teeth, or dislocation of the disk separating the ball and socket of the TMJ.
Symptoms of TMJ include:
- Tinnitus
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Clicking or popping of the jaw joint
- Chewing difficulties
If a person is experiencing these symptoms, they should reach out to a TMJ doctor for a consultation.
Questions to Ask a TMJ Doctor
There are many questions one might have and could ask about TMJ. During the consultation meeting with the TMJ doctor, have a list of questions ready, and bring a pen and paper to jot down notes.
6 Questions to Ask:
- How is TMJ diagnosed?
- Why is treatment necessary?
- What treatment options are available?
- What experience does my doctor have with TMJ?
- When can I start experiencing relief from TMJ pain?
- Will pain medication treat my TMJ disorder?
A TMJ expert will be able to answer these questions and any additional questions one might have. They will ask questions of their own to determine if symptoms are from TMJ or something else.
If the doctor suspects TMJ after the initial examination, further testing might be needed, such as x-rays of the jaw and mouth, a CT scan, or an MRI. Always address concerns and questions when they arise with a doctor that specializes in TMJ disorders. Without open communication, a person’s diagnosis and treatment plan will not be as effective.
TMJ Doctor in Houston, TX
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