# TMJ/Neuromuscular Dentistry

Neuromuscular dentistry refers to the dental practice concerned with treating issues that affect the alignment of an individual’s jaws including the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When a person’s jaw is not properly aligned, the neuromuscular dentistry determines the optimal resting position of the jaw in order to improve a wide range of functional issues that are related to malocclusion.

#### Why is TMJ Important?

Every time a person visits the TMJ dentist; various abnormalities associated with TMJ are examined to detect any signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The function of TMJ is critical in enabling a person’s mouth to move up and down and sideways hence allowing the teeth to meet in their optimal bite position. As a result, a properly aligned TMJ allows you to have appropriate routine functions in speaking and chewing with no discomfort. In addition, normal TMJ function is essential for the overall comfort of the jaw. In the case where an individual has a misaligned TMJ, he or she may experience severe pain in the jaw, headaches, and ear infections. Therefore, seeing a neuromuscular dentist is vital to helping identify and treat any TMJ misalignment issues in order to eliminate additional health complications associated with TMD.

Book a consultation with us today to identify any potential TMJ issues!

#### What Can I Expect with a TMD Dentist?

When you book an appointment with a neuromuscular dentist, various neuromuscular dentistry diagnoses are made including x-rays and digital radiographs that aid in revealing the condition and position of the jaw joints. Moreover, other technologies are used to record the resting position of an individual’s jaw including its associated movements. Sonography and joint vibration analysis help in recording the sounds of the jaw joint in order to detect the presence of any abnormalities. Electromyography (EMG) measures both the relaxed and stressed positions of a person’s jaw muscles while identifying any structural defects in the jaw.

#### How is TMD Treated?

Following a neuromuscular dentistry diagnosis, the identified TMD is treated or managed using various techniques. Our treatment plans are designed and suited according to your unique needs in order to initiate the optimal positions for your jaws for long-term functions of the TMJ. The typical treatment option includes the use of mouth-guards crafted using a special machine that helps in tracking the movements of the jaw.

Your treatment of TMD may also involve relieving muscle pain and spasms using Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation (ULF-TENS). In this form of treatment, electrodes are placed on the jaw, neck and areas of the shoulder where electric impulses are generated. These electric impulses contract the muscles, helping them to relax.

For more information regarding your unique treatment options for TMJ,

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