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| TMJ
Dysfunction / Pain Treatment |
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In our stressed-filled world the Temporomandibular
Joint (TMJ) is getting a lot of unfavorable attention. Many
people experience significant pain on a daily basis that can
be attributed directly to this joint connecting the lower jaw
to the skull. This isn’t surprising because TMJ’s
are the most complex joint system in the body--both the left
and right joints must function together in the coordination
of jaw movement in six dimensions. The neuromuscular system,
bone shape, and a person’s bite pattern are responsible
for the coordination.
Dysfunctions of the TMJ are recognized as temporomandibular
disorders (TMD) or more comprehensively as craniomandibular
disorders (CMD). The terminology refers to the clinician's ability
to distinguish not only a disorder within the TMJ, but also
primary physical disorders outside the joints that result in
TMD. One such primary physical disorder is musculoskeletal dysfunction
(MSD). MSD is a medical, as well as a dental syndrome and as
such is typically misdiagnosed, as the signs and symptoms of
MSD may overlap and appear as other medical conditions. A lack
of training by health care professionals in recognizing MSD/TMD
has led many patients to go untreated for a condition that only
a properly trained dentist can manage.
Causes of craniomandibular disorders range from chronic mouth
breathing to tooth loss and excessive wear on teeth. Stress
further complicates the condition. The symptoms are typically
the direct result of an improper bite (malocclusion). In patients
experiencing pain, this malocclusion will manifest itself as
MSD and can be objectively revealed with bioelectronic instrumentation.
Injury as a result of trauma to the craniomandibular system
can also be analyzed. |
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| Treatment |
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Craniomandibular disorders can be successfully
managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. A thorough examination
and diagnosis will determine how to attain maximum patient comfort
and function. Treatment options include TENS, orthopedic repositioning,
coronoplasty (recontouring tooth structure), and referral to
other health care professionals. Individuals who require long-term
treatment may be candidates for reconstructive dentistry (see Exceptional
Smiles), orthodontics or oral surgery, or a combination thereof.
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CLIENT
ENDORSEMENT |
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I've
had problems with my jaw for the past ten years
now. My problems included clenching, grinding,
clicking/popping in my jaw, locked jaw, headaches,
ear aches, and neck pain. I've seen two other
dentist since I noticed these problems with out
much success in correcting them. A friend of mine
recommend Dr. Schmid to me and I have been singing
his praises ever since.
I first went to Dr. Schmid for a routine cleaning
and filling. We discussed my TMJ problem and I
set up the appointment with doubt that he could
correct
my problem of ten years. The first difference
I noticed was that he took the time to show and
explain what exactly was happening with my jaw.
He hooked me up with electrodes making me look
like something out of a Sci-Fi movie and I could
actually see on the computer what my jaw was doing
wrong.
After the initial tests, which were painless,
I got my splint. I've had it for almost a month
and a half and I can already tell the difference
in my jaw. So far, almost all of my initial symptoms
have diminished or completely disappeared. I can
feel my jaw moving to a more comfortable position
without any pain. Even my husband has noticed
that I don't wince anymore when I eat.
I can't thank Dr. Schmid enough for the help he
has given me. I have repeatedly recommended him
to friends and family. Not only is he a really
nice guy, but he is an exceptional dentist!
Ellen
S.
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| TENS |
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| The central nervous system controls all bodily
functions. It is a complex system powered by bioelectric and
biochemical mediation. Transcutaneous Electric Neural Stimulation
(TENS) is used to reset the circuitry with a gentle electric
pulse at ultra-low frequency right over the root of the Trigeminal
nerve - the nerve that supplies the muscles and associated structures
of the craniomandibular system. TENS also relaxes tension in
the muscle and activates the lymphatic system to rid the muscles
of metabolic wastes such as lactic acid. When a pathologic posture
needs to be corrected, TENS helps to deprogram the muscle memory
(or engramming) that has been learned to bring the teeth together. |
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| Orthopedic
repositioning appliance (an orthotic) |
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| An orthotic is a clear piece of acrylic that
is typically placed on the lower teeth and worn for three to
six months. It is designed to accurately reposition the lower
jaw in a physiologically stable position and has the anatomy
of the teeth that it covers. It is removable, but is usually
only taken out to brush the teeth and for cleaning. Patients
can immediately feel the difference in this new biting position
and frequently have an improvement in their symptoms in a short
time. |
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| Coronoplasty |
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Coronoplasty involves minimal recontouring of
tooth structure to reposition the jaw and its related muscles
to an optimal functioning position. It is only done when the
difference between a patient’s physiological jaw position
and their existing bite is minimal. In this case, conservative
recontouring of the teeth is all that is necessary to restore
physiologic harmony in the craniomandibular system.
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Call
today to reserve your appointment 512.329.5967
Or use our contact
form to schedule a consultation.
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