Neuromuscular Dentistry: Understanding the Evaluation
Practical information to help you prepare questions and understand your next step.

Original publication: 2015-09-24.
Look Beyond a Single Explanation
Jaw symptoms can involve joints, muscles, teeth, and other health conditions. An evaluation should investigate your symptoms rather than assume a bite problem explains them all.
How Dr. Rudnick Approaches the Visit
The TMJ evaluation includes an examination, muscle palpation, jaw tracking, and EMG. Allow about one to one and a half hours. Tell us about previous care and what has or has not helped.
Make an Informed Decision
Ask what the findings mean, which options are appropriate, and what evidence supports the proposed care. Discuss alternatives and any permanent changes before agreeing to treatment. Separate restorative needs should be evaluated on their own merits.
Plan for Follow Up
Care may require adjustment or a referral. We explain how your response will be assessed. A patient’s improvement is an individual experience, not a guarantee for everyone.
Your Next Step
Bring a symptom history and questions about the evaluation, options, and follow up.
Appointment requests are confirmed by our team. This article does not replace an individual examination.