3 Questions to Ask Your Jaw Pain Doctor

In most cases, the cause of jaw pain is related to tension or dysfunction of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint is the hinge that attaches your lower jaw to the rest of your head on either side. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder or TMD) can be caused by issues related to the tendons and ligaments, muscles, bones, or a combination of these in this area. Of course, there are other reasons that you may be experiencing jaw pain, but TMD is the leading cause by a wide margin. At Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, our jaw pain doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD, so you can understand the cause of your jaw pain and move forward with an effective treatment plan that is made just for you.

As with many pain conditions, it is possible that your jaw pain may resolve on its own. Sometimes chewing too much gum or eating especially tough foods can cause temporary jaw pain that will go away when a person stops chewing or eating these items. However, if you experience jaw pain that does not go away, is resistant to over-the-counter medications, influences your food choices, or has begun to negatively impact your sleep, it may be time to speak with a jaw pain doctor. By making an appointment with a healthcare provider that has experience treating TMD and other causes of jaw pain, you will ensure you have all the information you need to decide on an effective treatment method. Our jaw pain doctors work closely with an exceptional dental staff onsite at each of our locations across the United States, which streamlines your diagnosis and treatment process, so you can find relief from your jaw pain as quickly as possible.

It is very likely that your TMD treatment will be at least partially covered by your health insurance plan, though you may still be responsible for some out-of-pocket costs, depending on which insurance provider you use. At Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we strive to help as many people in the communities we serve as possible, which is why we accept most major insurance plans including Medicare health insurance plans. If you have questions about your out-of-pocket costs and whether your insurance will be accepted for your visit, please contact the Koala® Center nearest you to ask about your specific coverage plan. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is available to answer your questions, so you receive the highest quality of care possible.

If you are struggling to make it through meals or to fall asleep at night because of pain in your jaw, contact Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders today to schedule a consultation. With multiple locations across the United States in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX and Wausau WI, you can find a Koala® Center that is convenient for you.