Dr. Louis R. Vita's practice focuses specifically on the diagnosis, treatment, and pain relief from injuries and illnesses involving the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). He established The VITA TMJ Clinical Studies and Training Center to offer continuing education courses and seminars to dentists, dental hygienists, and other medical professionals where he teaches how to recognize the signs and symptoms of TMJ and cervical spine disorders, how the two disorders can be related, and appropriate treatment protocols. The Vita Head Neck and Facial Pain Relief Center was established in 2003 to treat patients with head and neck pain.
Dr. Vita is a graduate of Georgetown University Dental School in Washington, DC. He continued his studies at the Piper Education and Research Center and the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study. In addition to many dental memberships, he also maintains active memberships in the American Equilibration Society, L. D. Pankey Alumni Association, American Headache Society, Facial Pain Association, and the Piper Education Study Group for TMJ Disorders.
Study and research projects have led to many publications. Most recently, an article was published in the highly peer-reviewed CRANIO® journal on "Facial Pain from the Upper Cervical Spine Masquerading as a TMJ Disorder".
Dr. Vita serves as an attending dentist at Hackensack University Medical Center where he is the Section Chief of the TMJ and Facial Pain Department and is a member of the Board of Trustees. He maintains a private practice in general dentistry in Clifton, N.J.
Dr. Vita sets himself apart through extensive training with regard of TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)/TMD through the Piper Education and Research Center, the Piper Clinic, and through his mentor, Mark A. Piper, M.D., D.M.D. He offers his vast knowledge and practical skills to the residents and other attending dentists at Hackensack University Medical Center where he developed a distinctive Facial Pain Treatment Department.
Providing patients with relief from the adverse effects of these conditions has become the primary focus of Dr. Vita's practice. He knows that accurate and individual diagnosis is the key to beginning to understand appropriate treatment options. Dr. Vita's goal is to dramatically improve the quality of each patient's life and to free them from painful symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction, such as headaches, jaw pain, bruxism (clenching and teeth grinding), and tinnitus (ringing in the ears possibly from a neck or a jaw source).
The practice receives as many calls a day from people looking for help to alleviate their Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and sees a staggering 425 new patients each year.
"A lot of people have a TMJ disorder and don't even know it. Lack of pain does not indicate that a problem does not exist. That's why screening is very critical," says Vita, who typically receives patients through referrals from other dentists and ear, nose and throat specialists. "There's also a large percentage of people who know they have TMJ issues, but continue to suffer."
Dr. Vita sees patients not only from New Jersey, but Long Island, upstate New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania as well. Dr. Vita offers extensive hours and has received referrals from as far away as Niagara Falls and Atlanta.
Dr. Vita's work is held in high esteem by specialists in other fields. "Dr. Vita is very knowledgeable in a field that is extremely difficult to master.", an oral surgeon notes. Dr. Vita emphasizes: "Our goal is to be THE resource of dentists and physicians in treatment of a patient's TMJ problem. We encourage physicians to contact us about their patients. Then we work together to benefit the patient."
Dr. Vita is known for his extreme thoroughness and precision and brings passion and excellence to the care that you can expect to receive. Testimonials from patients as well as dental professionals confirm that Dr. Vita and the Vita Head Neck & Facial Pain Relief Center is the right place if you are seeking a definitive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for Temporomandibular Jaw TMJ Disorders.
A Sussex County patient notes, "I was told by so many doctors that I could not be helped, but because of you I am now pain free and finally have a quality of life." Another patient in Wayne says, "I never thought I would feel better again. Until you treated me, I thought I would have to suffer for the rest of my life."
Words from colleagues include, "Dr. Vita shares his knowledge with other dentists to benefit patients," and, "It is remarkable that my patients have had complete elimination of all pain and TMJ symptoms".
"I'm grateful for a loyal staff, and I really enjoy the challenge of diagnosing my patients' problems and discussing and offering solutions. There is no other field for me. I'm blessed, because I love what I do."
We’re here to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward relief.
Have questions about your symptoms, treatment options, or scheduling an appointment? Our friendly and knowledgeable team is always happy to assist you. Whether you’re seeking relief from TMJ disorders, head and neck pain, facial discomfort, or general dental concerns, we take the time to listen and provide clear, thoughtful answers. From your first call to your ongoing care, we are committed to offering personalized support, helping you understand your options, and guiding you toward lasting comfort, improved function, and exceptional care.
