TMJ/ORTHOTICS
Neuromuscluar Dentistry for TMD symptoms
The way your upper and lower teeth meet (occlusion) not only affects your teeth but your muscles and joints as well. Neuromuscular dentistry considers the entire system and the corporation between teeth, joints, and muscles. In most cases, the discomfort and pain associated with TMJ disorders can be relieved with the proper treatment and an orthotic appliance. The orthotic appliance is a custom appliance made specifically to improve your bite to give you optimal occlusion. After a thorough exam TENS, and a K-7 work up Dr. Swan will determine which treatment would be best for you.
If you suffer from any of the following you may have TMD:
- Chronic Headaches
- Jaw joint clicking or popping
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Facial pain
- Difficulty eating, chewing or swallowing
- Dizziness
- Earaches
- Poor posture
- Ringing in your ears
- Non-restful sleep
Some causes of TMD are:
Stress, poor airway, posture, muscle hyperactivity, loss of teeth, trauma to neck, face or jaw, misalignment of the jaw, and bruxism-clenching and/ or grinding of the teeth.
A computerized mandibular scan, or K7 Jaw tracking, will measure the pattern of the opening and closing of your mouth. Electromyography (EMG) tests will also be taken to provide Dr. Swan with the information needed about your muscles and the control of your jaw during various functions, as well as a record of where your current “resting bite” is. Once it is determined where your ideal bite is records and impressions
will be used to fabricate a custom orthotic.
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms above or if you are looking for an alternative to a surgical approach, please call us today to schedule a consultation.
