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. R. Lee Clitheroe on TMJ
Dr. R. Lee Clitheroe 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. It is a joint similar to our knee or elbow but much more complex.
Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?
A. Everyone has TMJ. It is what we call the actual joint itself. TMD is the disorder or dysfunction of the TMJ.
Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?
A. The symptoms of TMD can be masked by pain killers but they can’t correct the problem alone.
Remember, the complexity of the joint is due to the large number of both soft tissue components (muscles, ligaments), hard tissues (bone) and teeth that all have to work in harmony. Appropriate NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, Tylenol etc.) along with bite splint therapy, physical therapy and even muscle relaxers when needed will provide improvement in the TMD patient in the majority of cases.
Q. Who should treat TMD?
A. A general dentist with advanced training (from an educational facility like the Pankey Institute) can treat most TMD sufferers.
Q. What should you expect from a TMD doctor?
A. A thorough and complete exam of the head and neck and a full explanation of the findings and treatment options available.
Q. What results can I expect from surgery?
A. Fortunately, surgery is very rarely required.
Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?
A. Most plans cover some aspect of TMD therapy. Your benefits coordinator can tell you. If they can’t, then you should provide your dental office with an explanation of benefits (EOB).
Q. How to contact Dr. Clitheroe if we have further questions?
