TMJ / TMD

Head and Neck pain is nothing to smile about. Many people we help have been to many other doctors who have tried their best to help without success.

Temporomandibular Joint or TMJ as it’s commonly known, is a complex sliding hinge joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It is a joint that moves 3 dimensionally: up and down, forward and back, and side to side. Often “TMJ” is used to describe TMJ disorder, the malfunctioning of this joint and the associated structures.

TMJ is caused when there is a malalignment of the jaw, teeth, neck and supporting structures.

Over the last fifty years, the modalities for “treating” TM dysfunctions have changed. Today, to completely treat TM disorders, the clinician must be able to properly diagnose and provide services in functional orthodontics/orthopedics as well as provide phase II treatment or assistance to the referring doctor. It is important to note that most patients we treat have only received symptomatic treatment in the past, not corrective treatment. The patient must be made aware of this. Symptomatic treatment is not a cure. Further dysfunction and jaw pathology will continue.

Treatment is a two-phase system. Phase 1 consist of a diagnostic work up along with a properly constructed orthotic. This can be done with CT cone beam technology, EMG scans, and proper cephalometric evaluation, thereby helping reposition, support and cushion the damaged jaw, joints(s) and muscles. The above diagnostic criteria are also used in constructing a sleep appliance for patients with sleep/airway disorders and OSA. This provides another option for patients who are non-compliant cpap. These appliances should not be confused with a “bite guard”. Phase 2 (if applicable) consist of stabilization and retention through orthopedics/orthodontics, crown and bridge, or a combination of both, along with continued chiropractic or physical therapy. We strongly believe in the most conservative multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Our practice offers the latest in CT imaging, jaw tracking, sonography and EMG scanning, which accurately allows us to establish the proper cranio-mandibular (condylar) position, thus eliminating any error in occlusal rehabilitation.

TMD treatment may vary for each patient. Again, we strongly believe in conservative, non- surgical approach to treat if possible. We have maintained a 95% success rate in our treatment.