Questions about TMJ/TMD Treatment

How can I tell if my symptoms are caused by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and not something else?

Neuromuscular dentists use advanced computerized technology to determine if your symptoms are caused by a misaligned bite (called a malocclusion) and to record your jaw’s optimal resting position. Sonography is often used to record the sounds your jaw makes (such as clicking, grinding and scraping), and where that sound is coming from. Computerized jaw tracking will show any irregularities in jaw motion that may be indicative of TMD/TMJ. Electromyography (EMG) also may be used to monitor the tension in your muscle, and help identify where the imbalances in your bite are located.

What is the goal of TMD treatment?

When your jaw is out of alignment, it can never fully relax, causing painful symptoms like jaw, head, neck and back pain. A neuromuscular dentist works to realign your bite to its natural, relaxed position. In doing this, the painful symptoms associated with TMD can be relieved permanently. The ultimate goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to ensure every aspect of your bite is working together to create an optimum state of health and wellness.

What is the first step in addressing my TMD?

The first goal is to temporarily relieve muscle tension, pain and spasms. This is usually done with a low-frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). This technology gently relaxes your jaw and facial muscles with a rhythmic pulse, allowing more blood to flow into the muscles that are used for chewing. The TENS provides gentle relief by removing the lactic acid buildup and infusing your muscles with fresh blood and oxygen.

What treatments can correct my bite in the long-term?

After your jaw’s ideal resting position is determined, Dr. Joel Miller may fit you for a temporary orthotic device which is similar to a retainer. This is worn during the day and night to reposition your jaw to its correct relaxed position. Some patients find long-term relief with this option, and others must undergo dental reconstruction. Dental reconstruction differs for everyone. You may have a coronoplasty to reshape your tooth enamel, porcelain onlays on several teeth, or a full mouth reconstruction.

What procedures are used in a full mouth reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction may involve the placement of dental crowns to raise certain teeth for a better bite. Orthodontics or Invisalign® may also be recommended to move your teeth by their roots into proper alignment, which will correct your bite over time. If you are missing any teeth, this can cause the remaining teeth in your mouth to shift toward the empty space, which can negatively alter your bite. Dental implants, a dental bridge, or dentures can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, and restore your healthy, functional bite.

If you believe you may be suffering from TMJ and live in Valencia, California, Aesthetic Dentistry of Valencia can help. Please contact our office today to schedule your no-cost consultation so you can begin to find relief from your painful symptoms.