What You Should Discuss with Your TMJ Doctor

Treatment of any nervous condition involves careful consideration of patient triggers, and relies on a clear communication path between patient and doctor. While not exactly a nervous condition, TMJ disorder can affect some patients in the same way, especially since the temporomandibular joint works so closely with the nerves in the back of the jaw. In any case, any patient with TMJ-like symptoms should be absolutely clear about the sensations and severity, as TMJ is notoriously hard to diagnose. Lyme disease, tetanus, vascular neuralgia, and sinusitis are a few conditions TMJ can resemble.

After isolating the pain area, the first order of business becomes determining the source. Is it inflammation? Malformation? Is it an indicator of a past condition like diabetes or arthritis? TMJ disorder often traces to a birth defect, and may require orthodontic or occlusal intervention.

Next, discuss care. Is there anything you should be doing differently, such as observing better posture at your desk? Are there home remedies you can try? Massages, stretching, and even changes in diet have proven to be useful recommendations by our Los Angeles TMJ doctor.

Ninety percent of TMJ cases can be treated non-surgically. But you should be open to MRI treatments, jaw tracking, and other imagery to get the best result.