TMJ Treatment Available from 4 of 5 Dentists

Four out of five dentists in this survey report that they treat TMJ/TMD patients. The remainder refer them out to a specialist.

Dentists reported charging anywhere from $500 to $40,000 for treatment. Of course, there are a wide variety of treatment options available, and each method has its own price tag.

“Emotionally rewarding, but financially unrewarding. Once patients are out of pain, they’re miraculously out of money!" complained one dentist.

Here are some more comments:

• "Over 50% of the adult population needs this treatment, and many will accept if presented properly." (Connecticut dentist)
• “Due to the excessive costs for TMJ treatment by colleagues, I feel I have to provide some affordable treatment options to these patients.” (Florida dentist)
• “Treating lifestyle and stress are huge factors in successfully treating these people." (North Carolina dentist)
• “I refer them out to a prosthodontist.” (Illinois dentist)
• “TMJ treatment should be a recognized specialty by the ADA.” (Arkansas dentist)
• “Patient must be nearly pain-free before definite orthodontic treatment is begun.” (Nebraska orthodontist)
• “I am so fortunate to be one block away from a TMJ specialist so I often refer my patients with TMD to him!!” (Alabama dentist)
• "Conservative appliance therapy takes about 6 months.” (Arkansas dentist)
• “Poor return for time spent, but a great service to needy patients.” (Missouri dentist)
• “You have to know what you are doing. One must be able use MRI and CT scans, drugs and splint therapy.” (Maryland dentist)
• “Docs who do not truly understand the field should take a lot of continuing dental education.” (Illinois dentist)
• “The various treatment modalities are confusing, and many are not supported by credible research.” (Nevada periodontist)

Read more: Clear Majority of Dentists Treat TMJ and TMD