FAQ

Here are answers to some of our patients’ most frequently-asked questions. If you need answers to questions that are not listed, feel free to contact us and ask your questions directly. To properly diagnose your problems, request an appointment with Dr. Markman so he may examine you thoroughly and provide solutions to your TMJ/ TMD problem.

What Happens during my first visit?
A full hour is needed to meet with the patient, investigate the problem and review its history. Part of the time will be set aside for a physical examination.

Will I need X-rays?
That depends on why you are here. If your reason is for a TMJ evaluation, and if you have readable radiographs that are clear and are current, a repeat x-ray will not be necessary. We will however need radiographs of your jaw joints.

How long will my TMJ treatment take?
That depends on how long it has been present and the diagnosis.

Some say that TMJ is very difficult to treat. Why is that so?
Treatment can be complicated. The orofacial pain professional community is beginning to understand that there is strong association between TMD and migraine headache, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia and vulvodynia.

I was told by someone that I would need medication for my problem and I am very sensitive to them. What would you do in my case?
Often an intraoral medical delivery device can be made as a way for topical medicine to enter the system to control pain.

I already have a mouth guard, and it doesn’t seem to help.
Your mouth guard will be evaluated for fit, stability and design. Sometimes an existing device can altered. If an needed alteration is extensive, it may not be practical to try alter it.

I always have a lot of questions. Can you put up with me?
I have a lot of answers.

Do all TMJ patients get a mouth guard?
Mouth guards are designed to protect teeth. The device we make is a custom orthotic. Note that not all patients require orthotics.