Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is TMJ?
- Is Dr. Walz a dentist or a medical physician?
- Do I need a referral for your office?
- What is the general cost of treatment?
- Do you have payment plans?
- Is T.M.J. treatable?
- Is surgery a treatment option?
- How long will my treatment take?
- What can I do to relieve discomfort in the meantime?
What is TMJ?
T.M.J stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the jaw joint. If you have a dysfunction of your jaw joint, it is called a T.M. disorder.
Is Dr. Walz a dentist or medical physician?
He is a dentist that provides treatment for T.M.J./facial pain, headaches, snoring, and sleep apnea
Do I need a referral for your office?
We advise you to call your medical insurance and ask if you need a referral, especially if you have a HMO or PPO policy. We will call your insurance company for benefit quotes at your initial consultation to assist you.
What is the general cost of treatment?
Each patient is unique, and the need for services can vary widely. Future treatment and costs will be reviewed with you after assessment and a diagnosis is determined at the end of your consultation.
Do you have payment plans?
We offer a monthly payment program with up to a year to repay at no interest or finance charges.
Is T.M.J. treatable?
Yes, and treatment is highly successful. Dr. Walz will give you a treatment plan at your consultation.
Is surgery a treatment option?
Surgery is required in less than 5% of cases. Dr. Walz will recommend a surgery consultation if he feels it to be appropriate. Our office provides nonsurgical rehabilitation therapy including oral orthotic therapy, physical therapy and exercises.
How long will my treatment take?
Treatment time can vary from case to case. The average treatment time is four to six months.
What can I do to relieve discomfort in the meantime?
We encourage you to follow these home care instructions that may be helpful in alleviating any discomfort you are experiencing.
- Use ice packs. We recommend icing for ten minutes 3-4 times per day. Place ice packs over the temple area and side of the face.
- Place yourself on a soft (not liquid) diet. Avoid foods like salads, apples, tostado chips, corn on the cob, hard breads, raw vegetables, steak, etc. NO CHEWING GUM OR ICE!
- Disengage your teeth as much as possible. Keep them slightly apart except when chewing or swallowing. Rule: “lips together, teeth apart”.
- Sleep on your back if possible. Use pillows for support under the knees or on your sides. Do not use firm, full pillows under your head. There are various orthopedic pillows available that are helpful in reducing head and neck pain. A water pillow is the preferred type. DO NOT SLEEP ON YOUR STOMACH! If you must sleep on your side, use your water pillow and keep your arms and hands from pressing against your TM joint. Do not sit or sleep under ceiling fans or vents, as this will aggravate sensitive muscles and joints.
- Do not sit with your chin resting on your hand, and limit your yawns by placing and holding the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth while you yawn to prevent an extra wide opening. When talking on the phone, do not support the receiver with your shoulder.