Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is a condition affects more than 75 million people of various ages and gender. It is basically an imbalance in the jaw to skull relationship very often caused by a misaligned bite. A bad bite can create excessive pressure on the muscles and tissues around the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) affecting its function. The strained, uncomfortable position of the joint affects the positioning muscles and causes pain in the face, back, neck and shoulders.

TMDJ represents such a broad range of symptoms that often times it is misdiagnosed as other conditions. That is why we screen in our initial examination for this. We will also review your muscles for soreness, trigger pain points, check your teeth for unusual wear and take radiographs of your joint. If you suspect that you are suffering from TMJD, please consider us for your care. We will be able to address your needs and create a customized treatment plan to relieve your discomfort.

Occlusal Adjustments  This is the most basic way of modifying the bite in order to relieve jaw tension.  The goal is to allow the teeth to fit together in an even way during eating and at rest.  If a patient has more complicated needs an appliance that helps minimize teeth contact may be constructed known as an occlusal night guard.  This helps to control excessive grinding or clenching of teeth. It is usually worn at night.  Lastly a more extensive treatment is known as Neuromuscular Therapy.  Our office has advanced training in this area.  This involves use of an Orthotic Splint.  This custom made device gently moves the jaw and trains it to rest in a proper position so the joint and muscles are exposed to as little stress as possible.  The splint is adjusted over several visits allowing your joint to heal and adapt to its new position.   In some cases the use of a Botox neurotoxin to relax muscles proves helpful to quickly reduce discomfort.

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