Tags:
There is no field of study or expertise for TMJ. In light of this, you should be wary of a doctor claiming to be an “expert in the field”. TMJ is a mysterious condition, with many variables. Most likely, your diagnosis will start with your dentist or general practitioner, first responders to reports of chronic pain.
Your doctor or dentist may refer you to a pain clinic for further examination. Orthodontists, neurologists, and musculoskeletal experts may also be called in, depending on the severity of your case.
If your TMJ is due to an abnormality in the jaw or bite, you may need braces or a stabilizing splint. Some orthodontists prescribe a mouth guard that you wear at night to prevent bruxism, or tooth grinding.
There are nerves and blood vessels in the back of the jaw that if affected, can cause headaches and dizziness. In this case, you may need an MRI or other tests.
Preferably, your TMJ doctor will have some balance of education in all these fields, or enough to make the right referral. If you think your TMJ may be stress-related, there are mental exercises you can do to reduce anxiety. Or ask your doctor about medications.
For more information, contact your Thousand Oaks TMJ expert.