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Temporomandibular Joint Disordericon-print

Working With Your Provider

Find the Right Health Care Provider


Your primary care provider (PCP) may be your first stop in finding TMD symptom relief. If your PCP cannot help you within two weeks, find a dental care provider with experience in treating TMD and pain. Ask your PCP for a list of qualified dental TMD experts. Ideally, the dental care provider should work in a recognized pain clinic that includes several types of treatment. Remember that such clinics are not available in all areas of the country.

"Shop around" by scheduling phone or personal interviews with the dental care providers you are considering. Compare the results of each interview until you are completely satisfied that your choice of a dental care provider, clinic or center is the best one for you. See a list of questions you can ask during each interview.

If conservative therapies do not provide enough relief for your pain, you may need to see an oral or maxillofacial surgeon. If you are seeing a qualified TMD provider for non surgical care, he or she will be your best source for a referral to a surgeon. The surgeon will talk to you about surgeries that may help relieve your pain. Again, “shop around” and schedule several interviews to help you find the right surgeon for your needs.

Members of your TMD care team may include one or more of the following:

  • Primary care provider (PCP)
  • Dentist
  • Orthodontist
  • Oral and/or maxillofacial surgeon
  • Physical therapist
  • Psychotherapist
  • Physical medicine/rehab physician

Learn About TMD


Whether you are being treated by one TMD care provider or a team of them, you play the key role in your care. Read books, medical information and articles on reputable Internet sites to learn as much as you can about TMD. Go to the Resources section on the NPF web site for suggestions on books, organizations and articles. The more you know about treatment options, the more you can help yourself. You can ask better questions during medical and dental appointments. You can have more control and understanding in making decisions about your care and treatment. You can also teach your friends and family about TMD.

More Information

 

 
A directory of qualified TMD experts can be found at the following sites: