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. Anish Patel on TMJ
Dr. Anish Patel is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about TMJ.
Q. What is TMJ?
A. Chronic Facial Pain afflicts many adults in the United States. The name comes from joining of the jaw bone--the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints called the temporomandibular joints or "TMJ."
Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?
A. TMJ can have many symptoms. Some common symptoms include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth, or headaches and neck pain.
Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?
A. No. Pain killers will only help to alleviate the symptoms of pain. The underlying problems, meaning whatever issues are causing the pain, would remain untreated.
Q. Who should treat TMD?
A. A dentist can help identify the source of the pain with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays. Most dentists that treat TMD have additional training in treatment and management.
Q. What should you expect from a TMD doctor?
A. Treatment may involve a series of steps beginning with the most conservative options. In many cases, only minor, relatively non-invasive treatment may be needed to help reduce the pain. There are several treatments for TMJ disorders. They may include stress-reducing exercises, wearing a mouth protector to prevent teeth grinding, orthodontic treatment, medication or surgery.
Q. What results can I expect from surgery?
A. Varied, surgery is usually the last option after all other methods of treatment have been exhausted.
Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?
A. Varied, Dental insurance may cover "night guards" and surgery is occasionally covered by medical insurance.
Q. How to contact Dr. Patel if we have further questions?
A. Please call our office at, 941-623-2244. We would be happy to answer any further questions you may have.
