Find pain and headache relief with TMJ therapy options

Dr. Tokiko Poppe of Bellevue, Washington, works with patients with a wide range of dental issues. This includes those who suffer from TMJ/TMD. With proper treatment and therapy, many patients can alleviate the symptoms of their condition and improve their quality of life. Continue reading to learn more about TMJ and TMJ therapy options at Cosmos Dentistry!

What is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ/TMD is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are the two joints that connect your lower jaw to the skull. These joints allow movement of the jaw up and down, side to side, and forward and back.

Dysfunction occurs when there is a problem with how these joints work. TMJ/TMD can cause pain in your jaw, face, head, neck, or shoulders. It can also cause dizziness, earaches, headaches, and clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw.

What causes TMJ/TMD?

There are many different causes of TMJ/TMD. Some people may have problems with their teeth or jaw alignment. Others may have issues with the muscles or ligaments around the joint. And some people may have arthritis or other medical conditions that affect the joints.

How do I get a diagnosis and find the right treatment for me for jaw pain relief?

If you think you have TMJ/TMD, see your doctor or dentist. They can examine your mouth and jaw to look for signs of dysfunction. They may also ask about your unique medical and family history and do tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Once a diagnosis of TMJ/TMD is made, Dr. Tokiko Poppe will work with you to create a treatment plan. This may include some changes to your diet, increased exercise, and stress levels. You may also need to use mouthguards, splints, or other devices to protect your joints. In some cases, surgery may be required.

With proper treatment, most people with TMJ/TMD can find relief from their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Learn more about TMJ therapy for jaw pain and headache relief

If you reside in Bellevue, WA, and want to speak with our provider about the benefits of undergoing TMJ therapy, call our practice today at (425) 448-4770 to request an appointment. Our facility is at 1515 116th Ave NE, Suite #301, and is open to new and returning patients.

Dr. Tokiko Poppe

Dr. Tokiko Poppe graduated from the University of the Pacific's Arthur Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. She has received extensive training in all aspects of dentistry and was involved in craniofacial research and studies on cleft lip and palate in school.

Dr. Poppe also completed a General Practice Residency in California, where she cared for medically-compromised adults at Veterans Hospital and children under general anesthesia at the University Medical Center. She is a member of the ADA, AAGO, AAPMD, WSDA, SKCD, AGD, American Laser Study, TBI Ambassadors, and AMR advanced program. She has completed Spear Education which dentists pursue to learn complex restorative dentistry. Dr. Poppe is also an osteopathic-trained dentist, having learned the whole-body approach from osteopathic physicians. She follows continuing education to stay abreast of the latest dental trends and enjoys sharing her knowledge with her community.

She also holds a Japanese dental license and speaks Japanese and English.