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TMD/Orofacial
Consultation and Examination
Your
initial
consultation
with our
staff and
doctor
begins
with
detailed
information
gathering.
We are
aware that
no one
enjoys
filling
out
detailed
forms, but
all of the
information
requested
on our
forms is
not only
relevant,
but
necessary
to inform
us as to
your
unique
background
so we can
better
serve your
needs.
There are
many
factors
that
contribute
to and
aggravate
health and
pain
disorders.
The more
we know,
the more
accurate
the
diagnosis
and
effective
the
treatment.
Our
comprehensive
history
includes
your chief
complaints,
history of
your
present
complaints,
past
medical
and dental
history,
review of
systems
and
psychosocial
history.
After the
history
forms are
completed
by you and
reviewed
during the
consultation,
Dr. Cueva will
ask you
about
additional
details
that are
important
to
understand
why you
have the
problem.
A
comprehensive
clinical
examination
of your
teeth,
mouth,
throat,
jaws,
face,
ears,
nose, head
and neck
will
follow the
history
interview.
Cranial
nerve and
oral
cancer
screenings
will also
be
performed.
Additional
diagnostic
tests such
as blood
work up
may
ordered.
Diagnostic
imaging
such as
x-rays or
MRI may
also be
ordered.
In
specific
cases,
previous
medical/dental
records
may be
requested
and/or
conferences
held with
your
previous
doctors
and
therapists.
After we
have
arrived at
a
diagnosis,
it will be
thoroughly
explained
in clear
and
understandable
terms.
Contributing
and
aggravating
factors
will be
identified
and
explained.
Written
educational
aids and
illustrations
describing
your
problem
will be
supplied
whenever
possible.
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Treatment and Therapy
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After the
diagnosis is established,
contributing factors
identified and you become
familiar with your disorder,
all reasonable options of
therapy and treatment will be
explained. Your options
may range from receiving
information about avoiding
specific activities such as
chewing gum or bagels, to
alternative therapies such as
herbal remedies, over the
counter or prescription
medication, exercises,
behavior
modification/biofeedback,
counseling, stress management,
diet counseling, physical
therapy, oral appliances, bite
adjustments, TMJ injections/arthrocentesis,
and surgery. We utilize
a team approach at all levels
and may ask you to see other
specialists. When you
become a patient, we begin a
partnership. Successful
treatment is not only
dependent on what we offer and
deliver, but on your habits,
thoughts, actions and
commitment. We have a
proven track record of success
in treatment of Orofacial Pain
and Oral Medicine over many
years, because we care.
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Consequences of no Treatment
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Not reducing or
controlling TMD/Orofacial pain
signs and symptoms may allow
progression of the disorder,
with increasing pain,
dysfunction and negative
impact on your life.
Many severe TMD/Orofacial
patients develop symptoms over
many years, often starting
with mild non-painful clicking
of the jaws or tightness in
the jaw/head/neck muscles.
Early treatment is usually
less costly and more
effective.
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