The TMJ is the joint that supports the jaw. There is one TMJ located just in front of each ear. Part of the movement of the jaw joint is guided by the bite. Treating and preventing problems associated with the TMJ involve re-establishing the bite/jaw joint balance and eliminating symptoms.
Being nervous or apprehensive about dental treatment, or just disliking the experience, can be a significant barrier to receiving the care you need. The first step for an apprehensive patient is to acknowledge their fears and be ready to overcome them.
Prevention is not a one time treatment but an ongoing lifetime of home and professional care.
Your recall schedule should be determined with consideration for your own individual circumstances, based on the timing that will best maintain your lifelong dental health.
There are a number of the steps that comprise a complete dental examination. Perhaps surprisingly, the last step is to check the teeth. An examination includes checking for signs of oral cancer, evaluating function of the jaw joints, an inspection of the hard and soft tissues of the mouth, and much more.
What is commonly called a cleaning is actually two separate treatments to prevent dental disease; removal of hard build-up (called calculus or tarter) and removal of stains on the teeth.