Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Jeffrey W. Heitner on TMJ
Dr. Jeffrey W. Heitner is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about TMJ.
Q. What is TMJ?
A. TMJ stands for temporal mandibular joint. TMJ is used to refer to problems associated with this joint and the associated anatomical structures.
Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?
A. Symptoms can include pain and or noise in the jaw joint, soreness in the muscles that open the jaw including tension and tightness and headaches, limited opening of the jaw that can include locking of the jaw in an open or closed position. These symptoms can be associated with clenching or grinding of the teeth or a poor bite (malocclusion).
Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?
A. Pain killers only treat the symptoms but do nothing to correct the causative factors.
Q. Who should treat TMD?
A. Because most TMJ problems are related to dental issues rather than true joint issues, a general dentist can treat most TMJ problems with good success. However, those TMJ problems that are joint related should be managed by a TMJ specialist.
Q. What should you expect from a TMD doctor?
A. One should first expect a thorough history followed by complete examination of the extra oral and intra oral areas. Special radiographs (x-rays) of the TMJ are also useful. Treatment often involves physical therapy and fabrication of an occlusal appliance to reduce the forces on the joint and muscles.
Q. What results can I expect from surgery?
A. Surgery is usually the last alternative for treatment.
Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?
A. Many dental plans have benefits for the treatment of TMD (temporalmandibular dysfunction). As well, many health plans have benefits. One should check with their specific dental or health insurance plan for specific coverage.
Q. How to contact Dr. Heitner if we have further questions?
A. If you have further questions or wish to contact me; one can call my office at 952-903-5000 or via email at docs@prairiedental.com.
