Burke, Fairfax and Fairfax Station, VA
If you ever notice pain or clicking in your jaw or even pain and ringing deep in your ear, you may have a disorder of your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). These joints are found just in front of your ears. They connect the jaw to the skull and act as sliding henges, allowing the mouth to open and close smoothly. When this delicate system doesn’t work correctly, it’s called TMJ or TMD.
TMJ disorders are complex and can be caused by various factors, including genetics, arthritis, jaw injury or bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding). The disorder can lead to a wide range of orofacial issues that impact your physical health, emotional well-being and overall quality of life. For these reasons, treating TMJ disorders warrants specialized knowledge and training. In the Burke area, Dr. Pam Marzban is specialized in treating TMJ disorders. But for readers who may not be within driving distance, Dr. Marzban is providing some pointers on how to find the best dentist to treat your TMJ disorder.
Ask for recommendations
Unfortunately, TMJ disorders are common, so chances are high that you have a friend or family member who has sought treatment from a TMJ specialist. Ask around on social media, and be sure to ask your primary care physician for a dentist recommendation, too.
Research the dentist’s credentials and experience
Be sure that any dentist you choose is board-certified and has completed specialized training in TMJ disorders. Find out how long the dentist has been treating TMJ disorders and their success rate.
Read reviews and testimonials
In the digital age, reviews for businesses and services are everywhere! When you’re looking for a TMJ dentist, you want to be sure his or her patients have been satisfied with the treatment they received. In addition to Google, Yelp and Facebook reviews, many dental practices feature patient testimonials on their websites and social media pages that can give you a sense of the dentist’s expertise and patient care.
Consider the practice environment
Be sure to visit the dental practice and take a look around. Is it clean, modern and equipped with the latest technology? A comfortable, professional and accommodating environment can make a significant difference in your treatment experience. Is the dental team friendly? Pay attention to how staff members interact with patients when you visit. Friendly, knowledgeable and compassionate staff will enhance your overall experience and help you feel at ease.
Schedule a consultation
A good TMJ dentist like Dr. Marzban will want to assess your condition in an initial consultation. This may involve an exam, including x-rays. A dentist should provide for you a clear, personalized treatment plan and will answer any of your questions.
Treat TMJ disorders in Burke, Fairfax, and Fairfax Station, Virginia
TMJ can be uncomfortable enough on its own. Don’t add to your pain by picking the wrong dentist to treat it. Taking the time to find the right specialist can lead to significant relief from TMJ symptoms. Always choose a dentist who prioritizes your well-being and provides personalized, expert care — a dentist like Dr. Marzban. If you have TMJ disorder in the Burke, Fairfax or Fairfax Station areas, reach out to Dr. Marzban online today or call 703-323-8200.
