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How Does Dr. Michel Diagnose TMJ Disorder?

May 15, 2012

When you see your doctor for a diagnosis, one of the first things you want to know is how he or she is going to make that diagnosis. What kinds of tests will be needed? Will be they invasive or uncomfortable? And just as important, will they be trustworthy?

At Michel Dental in Topeka, Dr. Michael Michel uses joint vibration analysis to diagnose cases of TMJ disorder. Of all the way that TMJ disorder can be diagnosed, joint vibration analysis is one of the most comfortable and trustworthy, in addition to be non-invasive.

Here’s how joint vibration analysis works.

When you come to our Topeka office, Dr. Michel will slip something that looks like a pair of headphones over your head. They’re not headphones, of course—they’re actually sensors, and we’ll use them to measure how well your temporomadibular joints are functioning.

How?

By listening for friction between the bones and cartilage of your joints. As you open and close your mouth, these sensors will be listening for anything out of the ordinary that might indicate a problem. Once we’ve collected all the data we need, Dr. Michel can scrutinize it more closely and continue to screen you if necessary.

In all, joint vibration analysis takes only a few seconds to complete and has proven to be an effective means of screening and diagnosing patients. If you’re concerned that you might have a TMJ disorder, call Michel Dental today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michel. We serve patients from Topeka, Emporia, Lawrence, Manhattan, and surrounding areas.

Which Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?

May 4, 2012

In the past, you didn’t have much to choose from if you were looking for toothpaste. But that’s not the case anymore. Now, each one seems to have a special purpose, whether it’s whitening, tartar control, or sensitivity. With so many options staring you in the face, you may not be sure which one to pick.

What’s a patient to do?

Well, the truth is that it may not matter all that much. What’s more important is how you brush, and that you’re brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Why Is Fluoride So Important?

Because it attracts minerals that are important for building strong enamel, and that’s what you need to defend your smile from decay and cavities. Outside of that, what you need from your toothpaste will be different from what others need. If you have trouble with sensitive teeth, a toothpaste that treats sensitivity may be able to help. The same goes for patients who want a whiter smile. Whitening toothpastes aren’t guaranteed to deliver professional results, but they may give your smile just the boost you’ve been looking for.

But what’s more important than anything else is that you’re brushing regularly and with a fluoride toothpaste. It’s really as simple as that!

Still Have Questions?

If you still have questions about what kind of toothpaste is most right for you, Dr. Michel’s Topeka dental office would love to help. Call us today with your questions or to schedule an appointment with us. We serve patients from Topeka, Emporia, Lawrence, Manhattan, and beyond.