TMJ Assessment

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TMJ Self-Assessment

Hello, I’m Dr. James Segulyev, DDS and over the years of being a Dentist, I have developed a special interest in helping patients who suffer from bite problems, facial pain, headache pain, and TMJ Disorders.

TMD is a complicated dental health issue that is often misdiagnosed. TMJ symptoms range widely, and some even seem unrelated to dental health. Patients report experiencing everything from teeth grinding, jaw clicking and popping, and jaw soreness to back pain, headaches, and sleep disruption.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you may be wondering if you have TMD. The only way to know for certain if you are, in fact, suffering from this debilitating condition is to obtain a professional diagnosis which I can provide for you. However, you can do some simple screening at home to get started in the right direction. Completing a TMJ assessment at home is a good first step.

I recommend doing a self-assessment at home and then following up with an appointment at my dental office in Dallas. When you visit my office, I’ll conduct a full examination to determine the condition of your TMJ health. Once we’ve identified the root cause of your symptoms, I’ll create a customized treatment plan based on your individualized needs and long-term goals.

I have witnessed first-hand the distress that TMD can cause in my patients and getting relief is possible. Together, we can get you back on track with your health so you can live a better life and have a more fulfilling future.

TMJ Self-Assessment Questionnaire

If you are experiencing jaw discomfort or are concerned that you may have TMJ Disorder, you can do a self-assessment at home. This questionnaire is quick and simple and may help you decide whether you need professional care:

  1. Do you experience pain when you eat or when opening or closing your mouth?
  2. Is it uncomfortable to open your mouth wide or for a long period of time?
  3. When you open your mouth, do you hear strange clicking or popping noises near your jaw?
  4. Does your jaw get tired when you’re eating?
  5. Do you find yourself often complaining of headaches or migraines?
  6. Do you suffer from back pain, neck pain, or shoulder pain?
  7. Are hard, crunchy foods difficult to eat or does eating them produce jaw pain?
  8. Does your jaw lock at any position? Do you feel like your jaw movement is sometimes (or always) restricted?
  9. Do you have unexplained facial pain?
  10. When you wake up in the morning, is your jaw stiff or tired?
  11. Do you clench your jaw or grind your teeth (day or night)?
  12. Do you have chipped, cracked, damaged, or missing teeth?
  13. Are your teeth sensitive to temperature changes? Does it bother you to consume food or beverages which are very hot or very cold?
  14. Do you feel like your jaw gets tired when you chew or when you have to open it for a long period of time, such as a dental appointment?
  15. Are you prone to experiencing earaches or are you sometimes bothered by ringing in your ears?

What to Do with Your Results

Now that you’ve completed your TMJ Self-Assessment, you’ll want to review the results. If you answered “yes” to virtually any of these questions, it’s quite possible that you may be suffering from undiagnosed Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. The more “yes” answers you have, the higher the likelihood that you have TMD.

However, it’s important to keep in mind, this assessment is only the beginning of the screening process. It is not conclusive, nor is it meant to be used as a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Remember, the only way to know for certain if you have TMD is to obtain a diagnosis from a dental health professional.

The Importance of an Accurate Diagnosis

I cannot stress enough how important an accurate diagnosis is for successful TMD treatment. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s health and understanding of the biological issues at hand pave the way for treatment. Unless the root cause of a patient’s symptoms are identified and addressed properly, successful treatment and lasting results are unlikely. Symptoms will most likely return, and the patient will end up paying more for their care.

So, while a TMJ self-assessment is a good place to start, it should not be the only method used for diagnosis. If you are concerned about your TMJ health, it is imperative that you obtain a proper diagnosis from a dental health professional.

Best Dentist In Dallas

If you are looking for a Dentist that specializes in TMJ treatment in Dallas, I encourage you to contact us at (972) 661-3666. I would love the opportunity to help you achieve lasting relief from your TMJ symptoms. We look forward to meeting you.

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