This review is for Dr. Ramin Mehregan, a remarkable dentist. My battle with TMJ began a year ago, with what appeared to be a sudden and drastic onset after my first dental crown. The range of symptoms was vast -- it became painful to talk, difficult to chew, my jaw/teeth always felt uncomfortable and it was hard to open my mouth without pain/stiffness. Additionally, my neck became stiff, and I developed tinnitus and a stuffy clogged feeling in my ears. The pain physically and psychologically was significant and after many failed and costly treatments, I wondered what the future would hold for me. Had could I have suddenly gone from a healthy 58 year old to one with chronic pain?
In an effort to regain health I read everything I could about TMJ on the web. It was clear that doing nothing was not the answer for me. But I was concerned that I would make another poor choice regarding care. As I researched and read, I became convinced that the GNM approach could provide relief. The technique appealed to me because it was conservative, precise, and focused on occlusion.
Through extensive research, I found Dr. Mehregan, a TMJ expert and functional orthodontist. He is 3 hours from me, and that was do-able. I liked him immediately - through an e-mail correspondence I saw he was responsive, knowledgeable, and honest. I contacted the mother of one of his patients and her reference was glowing -- her son was quickly recovering from extreme jaw pain to functionality in a very short time period.
I went in for diagnosis at the end of June. Dr. Mehregan provided a thorough examination, featuring the right x-rays . The scans showed clearly that my discs were compressed, especially on one side. Dr. M explained the problems and how my crown combined with my severe overbite/overjet had been the last straw to upset my structural challenges. Yet he assured me I was very treatable with his techniques. With all of this in mind, and using his high tech measuring devices, over the course of the next month he made me the most perfect orthotic -- adjusted now 3 times. He also had me visit a talented AO chiropracter (Dr. Dolan) to work with my neck.
Every visit with Dr. Mehregan is supportive and enhancing -- he is generously attentive, incredibly responsive, and genuinely kind and caring. The appointments are unrushed and relaxing. I am amazed at the results. I am now able to talk for long periods without my jaw aching. This is a huge deal since I am a trainer/teacher. Additionally, I am chewing with more vigor. I am able to smile "big" again and open my mouth wider. My mouth and teeth are comfortable again. My neck is less stiff. The ear challenges often take the longest time to resolve - but I have already seen some improvement which is encouraging. All this at just 6 weeks into phase 1. What a great way to begin treatment. Little by little I am reclaiming my health.
I will likely need the orthotic for 3-6 more months. It is very comfortable and not that noticeable. And then I will be ready for phase 2 of treatment - making my new bite permanent. Though I am 58, I am a candidate for the orthodontics of phase 2. Though I'm not relishing the idea of braces at my age, I realize this is my chance to create good occlusion and jaw health -- and this should help me to age with better overall health.
This level of treatment is not inexpensive. If you are fortunate enough to have insurance, Donna, Dr. M's wonderful assistant, will help you with the codes and the paperwork. But, either way, the treatment is worth every penny in my mind. Bargains are great when it comes to clothes and furniture, but when it comes to health the best deal one can find is the most talented health care provider. Our health is priceless. And I have learned that not all dentists are equal - even if they have had similar training, the way the practitioner uses the skill is an art form. With Dr. Mehregan, I have found the best dentist that I have ever had in my lifetime. If I could give him 10 stars I would!! read more
