Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
Temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction of the head is a very common and often painful condition. The bite can be a factor because of the relationship to the musculoskeletal system. The teeth, jaw joint and muscles must be in harmony. When they are not in balance, patients will experience signs and symptoms, often referred to as TMJ or TMD.

Symptoms of TMJ/TMD
Do you suffer from any of these?

• Headaches
• Clenching or grinding
• Jaw joint pain
• Jaw joint noise or clicking
• Limited distance of mouth opening
• Migraines
• Ear congestion
• Neck pain
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears
• Nervousness
• Insomnia
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Tooth sensitivity to hot and/or cold
• Snoring
• Sleep apnea

A dentist trained in neuromuscular dentistry will also be looking for other physical signs of TMJ disorder, such as posture, appearance and condition of your teeth and bite. The airway is another factor that contributes to this disorder and may require collaboration with your physician, ENT specialist, physical therapist, chiropractor or massage therapist.

Treatment of TMJ/TMD
Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder includes relaxing the muscles using a device called the Myomonitor. This device is a battery operated electrical muscle stimulator. It increases blood flow to the fatigued muscles, providing oxygen through the muscle. This releases built up lactic acid, which is a metabolic waste product. While the muscles are in this relaxed state, a new bite is recorded and an orthotic or mandibular repositioning appliance is then fabricated. This plastic appliance is worn on the lower teeth to maintain the neuromuscularly derived bite. The patient’s symptoms are evaluated over a period of time, the length of which is determined by the severity of the dysfunction. The goal is for the patient to be pain free and feeling great.

If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry or extensive comprehensive reconstructive care, neuromuscular dentistry to correct your bite is one of your options. Call today to schedule a free consultation and discuss these options further with Dr. Neuls, to determine if neuromuscular dentistry is right for you.