These are just some of the areas associated with temporal mandibular disorder or TMD. This type of disorder is associated with the temporal mandibular joint and the pain can be quite intense!
Due to the complexity of the temporal mandibular joint, many dentists have and continue to refer their patients to a "TMD Specialist" for treatment.
As our practice continues to evolve, we are now treating the entire system associated with chewing, not just your teeth.
The "system" is called the stomatognathic system and involves 3 components:
When these 3 components are not in harmony, this will be represented with the following signs:
Our ability to adapt to any disharmony in the system may mask any symptoms until a catastrophic event happens, for example a piece of your tooth breaks off. For this reason, we are one of the few dental practices recommending what is called a "Comprehensive Oral Evaluation" for any of our new and existing patients displaying any of the above 6 signs.
A comprehensive oral evaluation consists of:
This exam may broken down to approximately 2 appointments. The information derived from the comprehensive oral evaluation helps to determine how we will achieve harmony between the joint, muscles and teeth. We will then verify how to achieve this harmony by making a "occlusal splint." An occlusal splint acts to position your jaw in it’s most comfortable position.
When your jaw is in its most comfortable position the following changes are likely to occur:
The key is to find that "sweetspot" and for some people this can be very difficult, however we will take the time to discover where your jaw belongs. We understand how debilitating chronic pain can affect one’s life. Chronic pain causes one to lose sleep, be highly irritable, depressed and non-productive. By starting with the proper jaw position as our reference point….
When harmony is achieved more conservative treatment is now possible!
If you are interested in learning more about this topic schedule an appointment for a consultation and interview. Our staff is dedicated to helping all within our community achieve healthy gums and comfortable bite.
Please call 978-630-1702 and either Angel or Waleska will help you start the process of healing and recovery!