LVI Graduate

Member of AACD

TMJ and Neuromuscular Dentistry

In Neuromuscular Dentistry the physician includes the muscles, nerves, and supporting structures of the mouth in a thorough evaluation. Recent advancements in technology have allowed TMJ specialists to measure more accurately the most comfortable position for muscles, teeth and jaw. Neuromuscular dentistry can help achieve the best comfort and health. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ/TMD) dysfunction Two joints and several jaw muscles make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak, and swallow. These structures include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone, the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJ’s. Sometimes these joints dysfunction (TMD) and the person becomes symptomatic. Some diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis and thyroid imbalances increase the likelihood of TMD.

Some common TMJ/TMD symptoms which are caused when the muscles,

teeth and jaw are in conflict include:

• Pain and ringing in or around the ear
• Tenderness of the jaw
• Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
• Headaches
• Face, neck and back pain
• Grinding, wearing, and pushing of the teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding gums
• Numbness and tingling in the arms or fingers
• Dizziness
• Sleep problems
• Hearing loss

What is the goal of Neuromuscular Dentistry?

The goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to find the position of the jaw where the muscles are relaxed and at rest. Once this occurs the following benefits can occur:

• Restore the relationship between the teeth, muscles, jaw and the jaw joints
• Maximize function and efficiency
• Improve overall health and wellness by removing or reducing TMD symptoms
• Enhance overall face and mouth beauty

How Does Neuromuscular Dentistry Work?

• Initial evaluation including patient history and the TMJ Scale
• Utilize a low frequency TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation) unit, which relaxes the muscles
• Utilize the K-7 and Myomonitor unit , a computerized diagnostic equipment, which records
  the position of the jaw and muscles before and after the TENS treatment
• Design casts or models of the teeth in the correct position
• Develop a customized plan incorporating the diagnostic findings to stabilize and finish final dental restoration

What does the TMJ Scale assess?

• Predicts the presence or absence of TM dysfunction
• Detects the presence of clinical symptoms
• Screens for stress or other related problems
• Helps determine the likelihood of developing a chronic illness