Patients with TMD or Orofacial pain often visit many doctors and undergo many tests, most of which are negative. An Orofacial pain specialist should evaluate patients with persistent pain. Dr. Simmons will perform a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a thorough history, examination, and diagnostic tests. The history will include recording the exact nature of the pain and other symptoms you may have, the history leading up to the persistent pain, previous doctors seen, past treatments and their results, and a list of medications taken with their effectiveness and/or side effects.
Dr. Simmons’ examination will consist of touching different areas of the head, neck and inside the mouth, measurements and evaluation of the jaw, head and neck, and gentle provoking of the pain. This can be with light touches, heavier touches cold or heat. Dr. Simmons may also perform some simple neurological tests. Psychological tests may also be appropriate since anxiety and depression often accompany persistent pain. Depending on the complexity of the problem, Dr. Simmons will decide which of the diagnostic tests are appropriate. After piecing together the results of the history, examination, and diagnostic tests, Dr. Simmons will make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment strategy. Usually, treatment is done on a trial basis and sometimes several treatments may be attempted before an effective approach is found. Treatment of pain disorders may require considerable patience to eventually control the pain. The first, or even the second method of treatment may not be successful but try to avoid being discouraged if you do not get results immediately. Maintain close communication with your doctor in a cooperative manner in an effort to obtain the most effective results.
