TMJ treatment Vienna VA & Physiologic Based Dentistry
Physiologic Based Dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on the correction of jaw misalignment. The primary element which sets neuromuscular dentistry apart from traditional dentistry is that neuromuscular dentistry considers the nerves and muscles and the correct positioning of the jaws, whereas traditional dentistry focuses on just the teeth and joints.
The result is a more complete approach which can resolve painful conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) and provide more comfortable and longer lasting solutions to other dental needs such as dentures and smile makeovers.
Your teeth, joints, muscles, and nerves all work together in the proper alignment and functioning of the jaw. When any part of this equation is overlooked painful conditions such as TMJ and serious dental problems can develop. Neuromuscular dentistry utilizes modern technology to precisely determine the proper positioning of the jaw.
Neuromuscular dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on the correction of jaw misalignment. Neuromuscular dentists determine the optimal position of the jaw in order to correct misalignment and adjust how the upper and lower teeth come together (occlusion). By realigning the jaw joint through the use of cosmetic dental restorations, tooth recontouring (equilibration) or orthodontics , neuromuscular dentists strive to alleviate stress from the jaw muscles and eliminate painful symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD).
TMJ Treatment and Physiologic Based Dentistry:
Physiologic Based Dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on the correction of jaw misalignment. The primary element which sets neuromuscular dentistry apart from traditional dentistry is that neuromuscular dentistry considers the nerves and muscles and the correct positioning of the jaws, whereas traditional dentistry focuses on just the teeth and joints.
The result is a more complete approach which can resolve painful conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) and provide more comfortable and longer lasting solutions to other dental needs such as dentures and smile makeovers.
Your teeth, joints, muscles, and nerves all work together in the proper alignment and functioning of the jaw. When any part of this equation is overlooked painful conditions such as TMJ and serious dental problems can develop. Neuromuscular dentistry utilizes modern technology to precisely determine the proper positioning of the jaw.
Neuromuscular dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on the correction of jaw misalignment. Neuromuscular dentists determine the optimal position of the jaw in order to correct misalignment and adjust how the upper and lower teeth come together (occlusion). By realigning the jaw joint through the use of cosmetic dental restorations, tooth recontouring (equilibration) or orthodontics , neuromuscular dentists strive to alleviate stress from the jaw muscles and eliminate painful symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD).
Beginning of Neuromuscular Theory
Neuromuscular dentistry was introduced in the late 1960s/early 1970s by Dr. Bernard Jenkelson, who examined the relationship of the upper and lower jaws. However, he did not limit his examination to the teeth, but also investigated the relationship among the muscles, nerves, bones and two temporomandibular joints (TMJs).
With the assistance of his son, Dr. Bob Jenkelson, he developed equipment to locate the ideal position of the lower jaw, which was determined to be where the jaw muscles are most comfortable. According to Dr. Jenkelson and neuromuscular theory, when the teeth, jaw muscles and TMJs are not aligned, TMD symptoms occur.
TMJ Treatment for Patients in Vienna & Tysons, VA
Our office at 8150 Leesburg Pike in Vienna, minutes from Tysons Corner, provides Physiologic Based TMJ treatment for patients with jaw pain, headaches and bite problems. Instead of treating only the teeth, Dr. Makarita evaluates how your teeth, jaw joints, muscles and nerves work together to find the true cause of your symptoms.
Common TMJ/TMD symptoms include headaches, jaw or facial pain, a clicking or popping jaw, clenching or grinding, and ringing or congested ears. See the full list on our TMJ Diagnosis and Treatments page.
How Your TMJ Treatment Works
Diagnosis: Along with X-rays, Dr. Makarita may use a computerized mandibular scan, electromyography (EMG) and sonography to measure jaw movement, muscle activity and joint sounds.
Muscle relaxation: TENS therapy gently relaxes the jaw muscles, eases spasms and relieves pain.
Bite stabilization: A custom oral appliance, such as a splint or orthotic, guides your jaw into its optimal position until your bite is stable.
Long-term correction: If needed, orthodontics, crowns or tooth recontouring (equilibration) help keep your bite properly aligned.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
How do I know if I have a TMJ disorder?
Symptoms like jaw pain, clicking, frequent headaches or ear congestion can be signs of TMJ/TMD, but they don’t always seem related to your teeth. A diagnostic evaluation with Dr. Makarita can pinpoint whether your jaw alignment is the cause.
What is Physiologic Based dentistry?
It’s an approach that considers the muscles, nerves and jaw joints, not just the teeth, to find the jaw position where your muscles are most comfortable. Correcting that position can relieve TMJ symptoms and improve other dental treatments.
Is your office near Tysons Corner?
Yes. We’re located at 8150 Leesburg Pike, Suite 503, in Vienna, VA, a short drive from Tysons Corner.
Ready to find relief from jaw pain? Call (703) 532-2020 or contact us online to schedule your TMJ consultation with Dr. Makarita.
