Dentist specifically for the dental specialty of implants, restorations, dentures, non-surgical TMJ therapy, and more.

Do I have "T.M.J"?

It is important to understand that problems with jaw joints, and the muscles that surround them, are no longer a mystery. It is simply a matter of finding the right type of doctor to properly treat the condition, usually a specialty dentist called a Prosthodontist, or a Maxillofacial Prosthodontist. There are other types of specialists who can help, such as an Oral Surgeon or an Orthodontist, but it is usually recommended that a patient begin with a Prosthodontist.

Early symptoms of T.M.D. can be sounds such as a clicking, popping, or even a sandpaper sound called Crepitus. Although these symptoms can go on for years with little or no discomfort, it is important to see a Prosthodontist, or specialty dentist, to assess the problem. The earlier T.M.D. is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of return to comfort and function.

The procedures for diagnosing and successfully treating Temporomandibular Disorders ("T.M.D.") have gone through a continuing evolution for the last several years. We now recognize there are specific causes that result in very specific effects, symptoms or conditions, that we call Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, or T.M.D. (T.M.J. is an acronym for Temporomandibular jaw joint - we all have them, and this is a misused and inaccurate term).

By far, the greatest advancement has been in the rejection of the idea of "T.M.J." Syndrome. In the past, this has been how we've misdiagnosed and attempted to treat this complex disorder. This is very good news for patients. Today, working with a highly skilled, trained and experienced Prosthodontist can result not only in an accurate diagnosis, but in complete return to function, comfort and stability for the patient. The key for patients, and their doctors, is to understand that every patient presenting with symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder is an individual with a very specific set of contributing factors and causes to their condition - identify the causes, and you can manage, control or even eradicate the effects, or symptoms.

If you are a patient with chronic headaches, jaw joint sounds, pain in your jaw joints, or other symptoms you feel may be related to T.M.D, please fill out the questionnaire below and Dr. Wada will personally respond to you with advice and recommendations.

Today's Date:
Your name: (required)
E-mail address: (required)
Phone:
Do you have difficulty opening your mouth?
Do you hear noises from the jaw joints?
Do you have tension or discomfort in or around the ears and cheeks?
Do you have pain on yawning, closing, chewing, or opening wide?
Does the pain feel "dull" or "sharp?"
Does your bite feel "off"?
Have you ever had an injury to your head, neck , or jaw?
Have you ever been treated for "T.M.J"?
If so, please tell us about it.
How long have you had symptoms?
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
My question(s) for Dr. Wada are: