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Neuromuscular Dentistry and TMD Treatment

In Chicago and surrounding areas

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a broad term referring to problems with the jaw and its functioning. The temporomandibular system consists of three basic components: the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the teeth, and the neuromuscular system. This joint provides a wide range of motion including up and down, side to side and forward and back. When the joint becomes misaligned due to a variety of factors, it results in the painful and debilitating condition known as TMD.

Some of the symptoms of TMD are:

• Tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Facial pain and soreness
• Neck stiffness
• Jaw pain and stiffness
• Headache, neck and shoulder pain
• Clicking and popping sounds of the jaw
• Uneven and excessive tooth wear
• Ear pain

Neuromuscular dentistry differs from traditional dentistry in that neuromuscular dentists are trained in proper alignment of the jaw in relation to the muscles that control the function of the jaw.

Treatment Options
Treatment plans for TMD are as varied as the patients that present with the condition. Each patient must be treated differently depending on the combination of symptoms and contributing factors. The goal of TMD treatment is to minimize pain and establish a return to function by allowing the muscles and joints to heal through rest and care. Damage to the TMJ cannot be reversed, but the body can often heal it enough to return to normal function without pain. Your neuromuscular dentist can teach you to recognize the symptoms of TMD early and manage them yourself once given the tools to do so.

The following treatment options may be offered:

• Jaw rest to give it time to heal. You cannot chew gum, bite your nails, chew on hard objects like pencils or clench your teeth. Your diet should be fairly soft, and avoid chewy and crunchy foods during jaw rest treatment.
• Occlusal splints (also called a mouth piece, appliance or night guard) are designed to protect the teeth from further wear and to reduce the severity of grinding at night and allow the muscles to rest. In very severe cases, the splint may need to be worn during the day, also.
• Medication for pain and inflammation may be prescribed; a muscle relaxant may also be prescribed.
• Moist heat is often helpful for the jaw's sore muscles. Moist heat promotes blood flow into the muscle which aids in healing and relaxation of the muscle as well.
• Exercises and physical therapy can help relax the muscles and increase joint flexibility.
• Occlusal adjustment (to fix bite problems) may be necessary and can be achieved through a minor reshaping of the teeth.
• Stress management is often helpful because TMD may be a sign that you are under stress and not even aware of it.

If you have TMD and would like relief from this very painful condition, please email or call the neuromuscular dentistry specialists at Colonial Dental Group today to schedule your personal consultation.