TMJ / TMD / Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatment
Serving patients in Portland, Auburn, and Gray, Maine
In most cases, TMJ involves resting and/or balancing the joint. If symptoms occur only infrequently, the treatment may be something as simple as warm, moist compresses. In more complex cases, a mouthguard may be created in order to reposition the jaw, relieving stress on the muscles and teeth.
This mouthguard is called a neuromuscular orthosis and is usually worn full-time. It creates balance between the teeth, muscles and joints. Usually, it worn anywhere from three to nine months, and may be used in conjunction with chiropractic care, physical therapy or massage therapy.
After that first procedure, a second procedure is then undertaken. This second procedure attempts to permanently stabilize the temporomandibular joints in one of several ways:
- A semi-permanent split -- this is a metal neuromuscular device which is worn in the mouth, sometimes for years.
- Comprehensive orthodontics -- In an effort to pull the teeth into the appropriate position, orthodontics devices may be worn for anywhere from a few months to a few years.
- Reconstruction -- There are numerous cosmetic dental techniques that can fix a variety of alignment problems. Although some of these procedures can be expensive, they can also be quite effective. From sedation dentistry to porcelain-ceramic technology, your entire dental landscape can be improved, and usually in less time than you'd think!
TMJ/Neuromuscular dentistry - Choosing a Neuromuscular Dentist
A neuromuscular dentist has specific, additional training above and beyond a normal dentist. However, some causes of TMJ require treatment from a doctor, and are beyond the scope of dental work.
A TMJ-trained dentist is often the perfect place to start, however. If the TMJ is the result of a tooth-related alignment problem, your dentist will be able to discuss your treatment options. If your TMJ is the result of other problems -- such as a neurological disorder -- your dentist will be able to refer you to a qualified medical professional.
Dr. Robert Beebe has trained at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. TMJ is a condition that should be looked at by someone trained in the intricacies of the disorder. Please Contact Dr. Robert Beebe , an LVI Clinical instructor, today for a consultation. Start feeling relief sooner!
Gray Plaza 31 Portland Rd
Gray, ME 04039
Cosmetic Dentistry