Dr. Rhonda Friedmann is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about TMJ.


Q. What is TMJ?

A. TMJ stands for 'temporomandibular joint,' which is the hinge upon which the jaw opens and closes. We all have two, right and left.

Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?

A. Somehow this has become understood to be a disorder (TMD), so the lay person knows TMJ as a "dislocation and/or pain in the jaw in front of the ear. The symptoms range from bruxing (grinding the teeth usually at night), clenching, facial fatigue (MPDS- myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome) when chewing food or gum, headaches upon waking, and neck and shoulder pain."  These conditions can present individually or in combination. They can range from being a nuisance to disabling.

Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?

A. The treatment ranges from anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen), heat compresses, bio feedback, and appliances (nightguards). Dr. Kerstein treats the underlying cause which is the occlusion (bite). Using computerized bite wafers, Robert is able to create a "movie" of the bite forces.

With this information he is able to selectively contour the teeth so the teeth are striking evenly and quickly thereby eliminating the premature contacts that cause the patient to grind on the teeth excessively. This in turn reduces the lactic acid build up in the muscles of the face, thereby reducing the facial fatigue, headaches and pain the TMJ sufferers experience.

Q. Who should treat TMD?

A. There is not a specialty degree in TMD (or implants for that matter) at this time. The work, in both instances, is done by general dentists, oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists.

Q. What results can I expect from surgery?

A. We offer a non-surgical, appliance and medication free approach for our patients. Surgery is for those who suffer a true bony or ligamental disorder which is far fewer than one would expect, and for that the patient is referred to an oral surgeon for the appropriate treatment. Botox is presently being tested as a treatment option.

Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?

A. Presently, TMJ is an orphan insurance-wise as no one wants to accept the financial responsibility for it. This puts the cost burden upon the patient.