Dentistry is regular check-ups and tooth filings and a broad field covering routine dental procedures to facial and jaw reconstruction. Dentists that diagnose and treat or temporomandibular disorders (TMD/TMJ) fall within neuromuscular dentistry.
A neuromuscular dentist dedicates their practice to alleviating TMJ pain through realigning the jaw. Malocclusions occur when the jaws don’t align properly, as seen in overbites or underbites. Although the American Dental Association does not officially recognize this dental field, many individuals suffering from TMJ-related pain find lasting relief from using this dental treatment methodology.
When to See a Neuromuscular Dentist
TMJ pain can dramatically alter a person’s life. The significant hindrance of a person’s daily functions like eating, talking, or smiling from TMJ make life difficult. A dentist that practices neuromuscular treatment methods can assist in improving an individual’s quality of life. Allowing the individual to enjoy daily tasks once again.
Symptoms of TMJ include:
- Headaches
- Sensitivity to light
- Limited jaw movement
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Ringing in ears
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Neck pain
- Swallowing difficulties
If an individual is experiencing these symptoms, a dentist will provide a thorough examination that includes the use of electromyography to measure a jaw’s muscle function in stressed and relaxed positions and the jaw-to-skull relationship for any structural imbalance. Another method a neuromuscular dentist will utilize is sonography. Sonography will detect sounds of the jaw joint to detect abnormalities. Additionally, x-rays may also be a diagnosis method for TMJ.
How a Neuromuscular Dentist Can Help
After an examination and diagnosis of TMD/TMJ, Dr. Buck will develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment may include:
- ULF-TENS (Ultra-Low frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation)
- To relieve symptoms of pain by relaxing muscles
- Orthotics
- A temporary device that a person wears over their teeth to stabilize their bite
- Coronoplasty/Equilibrium
- The smoothing and reshaping of the enamel of teeth to correct the bite
- Removable Overlay Partials
- Place over back teeth to maintain a bite’s alignment
- Reconstruction
- The use of crowns to make teeth higher to permanently realign the bite and provide structural support for the jaw
- Orthodontics (braces)
- Moving healthy teeth into the optimal position
The various treatments Dr. Buck uses grants individuals suffering from TMJ related pain to reclaim their life and smile with confidence. If a person believes that TMJ might be the culprit behind their neck and jaw pain, don’t delay contacting a neuromuscular dentist. Long-term effects of TMJ left untreated can lead to an increase in symptom pain or even hearing damage.
Neuromuscular Dentistry In Washington
TMJ treatment requires the recommendations of a neuromuscular dental professional and a multi-faceted approach to account for the broad spectrum of symptoms possible. Dr. Buck of Balance Epigenetic Orthodontics specializes in TMJ treatment making his office an excellent resource for TMJ pain relief. For more information on Dr. Buck’s practice and the treatment options he provides, please schedule an appointment or call us today at 206-316-8286.