TemporoMandibular
Joint/Orofacial Pain
What is the TemporoMandibular Joint or TMJ?
The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint immediately in front of the ear that connects the lower jaw to the skull. This joint allows you to talk, chew, and yawn. The muscles surrounding this joint control the position and movement of the jaw. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) is an umbrella term which covers all types of conditions related to the temporomandibular joint.
WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF TMJ DISORDERS?
Pain of the jaw joint and muscles
Difficulty fully opening the mouth
Uncomfortable or Painful clicking of the jaw joint
Clenching or grinding your teeth
Pain with eating, talking, or yawning
Earaches and headaches
Our Treatment Philosophy
The treatment of TMJ and orofacial pain can be confusing for the patient and even physicians and dentists. This is because the cause of chronic pain usually cannot be seen with our eyes or an x-ray, making it challenging to diagnose. Furthermore, treatment for chronic pain can vary greatly between philosophies and methods.
Dr. Kim’s unique educational background as a university-trained board-certified orofacial pain specialist with numerous hours of continuing education allows him to integrate multiple philosophies to provide a conservative and effective treatment plan for his patients.
Dr. Kim will take an extensive history of your concerns and complaints and perform a thorough clinical exam during the first appointment. Dr. Kim believes that understanding your pain is the first step to getting better. Dr. Kim will then develop and outline a strategic and comprehensive treatment plan to effectively take control of your pain.
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
- Clenching and Grinding of Teeth
- Migraine and Tension-type Headaches
CONDITIONS WE DIAGNOSE
- Intraoral orthotics
- Physical Therapy
- Medication Management
- Muscular Trigger Point and Joint Injections
TYPES OF TREATMENT
High Touch, High Tech Diagnostics and Therapy
CBCT Imaging
Dr. John Kim is dedicated to providing you with the most advanced imaging of your TMJ. Our state-of-the-art cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology provides detailed images of your temporomandibular joint, allowing expert radiologists to visualize your temporomandibular joint with high definition in 3D. Our experienced radiologists are specialized in interpreting your scans to provide insightful reports to allow us to provide the most suitable treatment plan for your unique needs.
PRF/PRP (Platelet Rich Fibrin/Platelet Rich Plasma)
Dr. John Kim also provides cutting-edge therapy for your temporomandibular joint condition. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a revolutionary treatment derived from your body's blood, rich in growth factors that stimulate healing and tissue regeneration. The process involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it to concentrate growth factors and platelets, and then precisely applying this enriched plasma to the affected temporomandibular joint area. These growth factors kickstart your body's natural healing mechanism, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is the next generation of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) as it is 100% natural from your own body with no additives.
PRF with Orthotic Splint Therapy
Adding PRF Therapy to Orthotic Splint Therapy provides an effective combination to improve pain and function without medication or surgery. Dr. John Kim will comprehensively evaluate your TMJ symptoms and design a personalized treatment program for maximum medical benefit.