Diagnosis & Treatments
TMJ Diagnosis and Treatments
The most life-changing effect of Physiologic Based dentistry is its ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat TMJ/TMD. A misaligned jaw has far reaching ramifications that can present themselves as painful and debilitating symptoms which seem to have no relationship to dental problems. TMJ/TMD symptoms include:
- Headaches (often misdiagnosed as migraines)
- Shoulder, neck, or back pain
- Numbness in arms and fingers
- Facial pain
- Jaw pain
- Clicking or popping jaw
- Clenching or grinding teeth
- Ringing ears (tinnitus)
- Congested ears
In addition to X-rays or digital radiographs that reveal the position and condition of the jaw joints, Physiologic Based dentists use several diagnostic technologies in order to determine the ideal position of your jaw to relieve TMD symptoms. These technologies include:
- Computerized Mandibular Scan — The mandibular scan precisely tracks all of the motions of the jaw and the position of the jaw at rest.
- Electromyography – Electromyography measures the electrical activity in the jaw muscles and the jaw-to-skull relationship. This determines muscle tension when the jaw is in motion and in a relaxed position.
- Sonography – Sonography records all of the sounds of the jaw while it moves. Clicks, pops, scraping, and grinding all are sounds of misalignment (malocclusion).
Physiologic Based Dentistry Treatments
If the jaw is not properly aligned, Physiologic Based dentistry may help to address the precise cause of the problem — whether jaw joint, muscle or tooth position. Treatment plans developed by Physiologic Based dentists are designed to correct bite abnormalities by allowing the jaws to go to their optimal positions for the long term.
Adjustments to a person’s bite can be accomplished using an oral appliance — such as a splint or orthotic— until the bite has been proven objectively to be stabilized. Or, orthodontic work may be required to ensure proper alignment, in addition to dental restorations such as crowns, or tooth recontouring (equilibration).
Also Check Out: Laser Dentistry
In the treatment of TMJ/TMD a Physiologic Based dentist will use transcutaneous electrical Physiologic Based stimulation (TENS). This treatment acts like a massage, relaxing the muscles, stopping spasms, and relieving pain.
Physiologic Based dentistry is a more advanced, effective, and complete approach to dental treatment than traditional dentistry. TMJ/TMD treatment can quickly relieve life-long pain. In general dentistry procedures the results are more accurate and long-lasting. When applied to cosmetic dentistry a more beautiful look can be achieved.
