281.296.6797
1.866.TMJ.TEXAS		 1001 Medical Plaza Dr. Suite 200
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
 
"Dr. Ronald Prehn, I had such a feeling of hopelessness at not being able to live my life in a way acceptable to me. You have been such a help with both my jaw pain and my overall well-being. I appreciate you so very much for always taking time to listen and your willingness to search for answers and solutions even when it took extra time, thought, and using other doctors as resources. You were so willing to call on others you thought might have an idea we could use. From the very beginning, you assured me that “we were in this together,” and you would be with me until we found a solution to alleviate the pain while allowing me to still enjoy life in a way acceptable to me. You and your staff have a special place in my heart. Thank you."
-Deanie
 






 

Our Method

Our approach is based on a thorough and accurate history and exam. After Dr. Prehn has identified all the factors contributing to your situation, he will offer a specific treatment plan that will include a detailed sequence of treatment modalities and medications. The key to our method rests on a proper diagnosis based on the latest knowledge of pain and sleep disorders, our years of experience and our commitment to excellence.

 

  • An accurate and thorough history is essential to understanding the cause of pain. The patient, the interviewing clinical assistant, as well as the doctor, must investigate the pain.
    • Be aware of the intensity of pain.
    • Be able to tell of the duration of the pain.
    • Keep track of the frequency of pain.
    • Pay attention to when the pain occurs.
  • Imaging is critical to accurate diagnosis.
    • X-rays can reveal degenerative processes that occur in the absence of pain.
    • MRIs can show soft-issue pathology that would otherwise be unknown to the practitioner.
    • CTs can offer detail and 3D perspective that is valuable to understanding the bony degeneration or pathology that has occurred.
    • Thermography can indicate which muscles are overactive, indicating pathologic activity that can cause degenerative effects on the bones and ligaments.
  • Medical examination is based on a blend of the latest in research and education, with years of experience. A head and neck physical exam based on both medical and dental examination procedures will reveal many of the factors contributing to your facial pain.
  • The treatment plan will be based on all the information from the history, imaging and the examination. This is the critical point in the treatment of your facial pain. Not only is the physical information critical, but the knowledge and experience of the doctor makes the difference in the success of the treatment. The plan must be flexible, as the course of treatment will depend on the response to various phases of the treatment plan.
    • Referrals to other medical specialties will be necessary as you respond to the treatment. Other factors contributing to the pain will become evident as treatment progresses. Referrals to a physical therapist, neurologist, ENT and other medical doctors will be considered.
    • The key to the method is the foundation of our vision, mission and values. That is where the difference in results of the total treatment will lie.