TMJ Symptoms TMJ Treatment TMJ Cost & Insurance

WAUKESHA COUNTY TMJ SPECIALIST

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw to the skull and allow for jaw movements critical to speaking and eating. “TMJ” is commonly used to refer to a group of over 30 conditions categorized as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD/TMJD).

Approximately 11-12 million adults in the USA currently suffer from TMJ disorders, and some TMJ pain occurs with other medical conditions. The 3 main types of TMJDs include joint or disc disorders, muscle disorders and headache-associated disorders. More women than men suffer from TMD.

Our Waukesha County TMJ specialists treat patients with mild to severe temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) using diet modifications, TMJ therapy, medications, night guards and more.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

Signs and symptoms of TMJD include:

Pain in the ears, face or neck

Persistent headaches

Stiffness in jaw muscles

Limited jaw movement

Jaw locking

Sleep apnea

Clicking, popping and/or tenderness at the TMJ site

Shift in jaw, changing the way the upper and lower teeth align (this is called malocclusion).

What Causes TMJD?

Certain health conditions and injuries can play a role in developing a TMJD:

Arthritis

Erosion of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Structural jaw problems present at birth

Trauma to the TMJ or jaw

Factors associated with and not proven to cause TMJD include:

Use of orthodontic braces

Poor posture

Prolonged stress

Poor diet

Lack of sleep

What are my TMD treatment options?

Treatment for TMD depends on your unique symptoms, health conditions, treatment goals and budget. Our Waukesha County TMJ specialists may refer you to an ENT, a physical therapist or other medical professionals as part of your TMD treatment plan.

Your TMD treatment plan may include:

Jaw exercises and/or jaw rest
A soft diet
Braces, splints or night guards
NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Muscle relaxers
Imaging
Surgery

Rediscover life without TMJ pain and discomfort. Schedule an appointment with the TMJ specialists at Dousman Family Dentistry today!

TMJD Treatment Costs

There is no set range for TMJ treatment costs. The specific cost of your TMJ treatment can depend on several factors, including:

Cause of your TMJ disorder(s)

Extent of damage done

Level of misalignment

TMJ symptoms

Medications needed

Therapies needed

Orthodontics or surgical interventions needed

TMJ treatments may be covered by your health insurance. Some insurance companies consider jaw surgeries medically necessary if the disorder is causing sleep apnea disorder, breathing issues, severe speech impediments or other health problems.

Dousman Family Dentistry treats patients with and without insurance. We accept most major insurances and Care Credit. Ask about our affordable payment plans for TMJD treatment!

Though coverage varies by plan, the major insurance providers we accept may cover some or all TMJD treatment costs.

Accepted Insurance Plans for TMJD Treatment	*Potential TMJD Treatment Coverage Not Guaranteed**
Humana	Refer to individual plan details*
Aetna	May cover TMJ treatments including physical therapy, removable occlusal orthotic devices, and/or surgery based on medical necessity*
Delta Dental	May cover appliances*
United Healthcare	Refer to individual plan details*
Ameritas	May offer certain coverage allowances depending on plan type, interventions and procedures*
Cigna	Refer to individual plan details*
Anthem	Plans may cover intraoral appliances, occlusal splints, mandibular occlusal repositioning appliances, surgical procedures, pharmacologic therapy and/or therapeutic injections*