TMJ And Neuromuscular Dentistry

TMJ / TMD is a chronic degenerative disease that often takes years to develop. When the jaw is misaligned, both the hard and soft tissues are affected and many physiological problems can result. In a number of cases, these symptoms are the result of TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome), also referred to as TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) or MPD (myofascial pain dysfunction).

Millions of people suffer from TMJ, a result of problems or symptoms of the joints and muscles that connect your lower jaw to your skull. This disorder can cause pain in the face, ears, head and jaw, as well as reduce your ability to open and close your mouth. Fortunately, many cases of TMJ can be successfully treated by a cosmetic dentist that specializes in neuromuscular dentistry.

Neuromuscular Dentistry

The goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to correct the bite and realign the jaw in order to relieve the symptoms associated with TMJ. Neuromuscular dentistry focuses on hard and soft tissues of the jaw, muscles and nerves. A neuromuscular dentist can determine the optimal position of the jaw by measuring the relaxed position of the head and neck muscles, and then reposition the jaw to achieve those measurements and alleviate the pain and discomfort.

TMJ Symptoms include:
• Headaches (in any part of the head)
• Face pain
• Eye pain
• Ear pain
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears
• Pressure or blocked sensation in the ears
• Blurred vision (which comes and goes)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Frequent sore throat or a sensation that something is stuck in the throat
• Burning tongue
• Shoulder pain

Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms, such as periodontal disease, tooth aches and sinus problems, so it's important to see a dentist that specializes in neuromuscular dentistry if you ever experience pain in your jaw or face and difficulty chewing or swallowing.

Most people who suffer from TMJ typically have an imbalance in the jaw-to-skull relationship, which is caused by a bad bite (malocclusion). When a patient's jaw doesn't fit together properly, they are unable to support their facial muscles, and this in turn places excessive strain and tension on the jaw.

Other causes include:
• Arthritis in the TMJ
• Dislocation
• Injury
• Grinding or clenching the teeth
• Stress which causes facial and jaw muscles to clench the teeth

Relieving the Pain:
• Apply hot and cold packs
• Pain relief medications
• Avoid hard, chewy foods
• Wear a night guard or splint to reduce nigh time teeth grinding
• Avoid closing teeth together to reduce pressure on the jaw
• Practice good posture to alleviate facial and neck pain
• Reduce extreme jaw movements, such as yawning or chewing if possible

At the Northfield Dental Group we have developed our own appliances to treat this syndrome non surgically as well as performing permanent reconstruction and rehabilitation. Whenever you experience jaw, face, head or teeth pain, always consult with a dentist. Early detection of TMJ or other dental problems will help ensure full recovery and quick pain relief.

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Dr. Ivan Stein of Northfield Dental Group, a leading cosmetic dentist in West Orange offers an array of dental services that help patients achieve their optimal dental health. From TMJ treatment and sports dentistry to veneers and bonding, this cosmetic dentist in Livingston delivers smile-enhancing dental care to every patient it serves.

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