A TMJ consultation will be our first visit at my office which will involve a comprehensive clinical oral and radiographic evaluation of your head, neck, occlusion and temporomandibular joints or TMJ.  A patient interview and history is also an important piece of the puzzle in order to make a diagnosis.


From the TMJ diagnosis we will discuss the treatment recommendations.  In most cases, I construct a custom TMJ splint and prescribe physical therapy.  The TMJ splint, also called a repositioning appliance, will reposition your lower jaw and stabilize the joint in a more ideal position.  Physical therapy should be done simultaneously to wearing the TMJ splint.  The therapy involves muscle therapy of the jaws, head, neck and shoulders.  An evaluation of the entire spine for proper head positioning, by an orthopedic surgeon or chiropractor, is recommended to eliminate muscle spasms and balance muscle tension.


With a more severe case of TMJ pain, with unresolved symptoms, after wearing a splint, arthroscopic surgery may be a recommended treatment.


Call for a TMJ consultation and learn more about recommended treatment customized for you. My dental office is located in San Diego near La Jolla in the University Town Center.