With a heightened focus on the idea of treating the whole person rather than just individual symptoms, the team, led by Dr. Kelley Mingus at our Bend, Oregon clinic, goes the extra mile to provide you with the utmost care. This commitment is especially evident in our approach to managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ).
Understanding TMJ Disorder
Before we delve into the specific treatment modalities offered by Dr. Mingus, it’s crucial to understand what TMJ entails. It’s a disorder affecting the joint that links your jaw to the temporal bones of the skull. It can generate discomfort and limitations in jaw mobility.
TMJ disorder stems from various factors. Interestingly, these can range from jaw misalignment to habits like teeth grinding, arthritis, stress, or even a blow to the jaw. The symptoms also tend to vary, ranging from mild irritants to causing severe, debilitating pain.
The Holistic Approach to Treating TMJ
A key fact to embrace with Dr. Kelley Mingus’ approach to treating TMJ is the focus on the patient as a whole. This methodology ensures that all their needs, from intrinsic to external factors, are strategically considered and appropriately addressed.
The team works in unison to fully grasp the patient’s unique circumstances and identify the correct treatment plan. The outlined approach enables Dr. Mingus to guarantee optimal jaw function and provide lasting relief from the constant discomfort associated with TMJ.
Advanced TMJ Therapy
One of the standout components of Dr. Mingus’s holistic approach to treating TMJ is the use of cutting-edge therapy methodologies. These entail modern and comprehensive techniques that are specifically designed to address individual patient needs effectively.
Neuromuscular Dentistry
Additionally, to optimize treatment, Dr. Kelley Mingus, along with his skilled team, uses Neuromuscular Dentistry techniques. This specialized field involves studying the harmony between jaw joints, facial muscles, and teeth.
Comprehensive Evaluation
To achieve the perfect balance in the oral environment, the team has to comprehensively evaluate the patient by incorporating digital x-rays, jaw tracking, muscle examination, and bite analysis into the diagnosis process.
Success Stories
A testament to the efficacy of Dr. Mingus’s comprehensive treatment approach is the many successful cases, one of which involves a 63-year-old dental professional, Janet. She was struggling with a problematic dental implant and a sinking jaw due to bone loss. After receiving treatment from Dr. Mingus, Janet now enjoys a pain-free life, better sleep, and a restored smile!
Necessary medical assistance goes beyond physical treatment; more importantly, it involves considering the patient’s emotional, mental, and physiological needs during the treatment procedure—all aspects that we prioritize.