Treatment
Neuromuscular dentistry provides many benefits to patients, including; decreasing or eliminating pain entirely, better overall health and longer lasting dental restorations.
Dr. Cortés uses the latest state-of-the-art technology to diagnose patients suffering from TMJ Disorder. She is able to determine if your symptoms are the result of Malocclusion, and if so what your optimal jaw position is.
Steps of TMJ Diagnosis
- Computerized jaw tracking instruments are used to record your jaw movements, resting position and path of closure.
- Electromyography is then used to determine the jaw’s muscle function in both its stressed and relaxed states and the jaw-to-skull relationship.
- Sonography is finally used to record jaw joint sounds to detect any abnormalities.
- Additionally, X-rays of the jaw may be taken to help evaluate the condition and positioning of the joint
After you have been diagnosed with TMJ, Dr. Cortés will work with you to determine the best course of treatment. Generally there are three main goals of Neuromuscular treatment;
1. Relieve Muscle Spasm and Pain
Alleviating pain is the immediate concern of Dr. Cortés. ULF-TENS, which stands for Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation, can help to relax muscles by gently massaging them. This helps to reduce pain by stimulating the body’s production of endorphins (the body’s natural anesthetic).
2. Stabilize the Bite
An Orthotic is a device used to stabilize bite which is worn over your teeth at night. Dr. Cortés uses this device to create a harmonious bite in which the teeth, joints of the jaw, and head / jaw muscles can work together without undue strain.
3. Long Term Management
There are many ways Dr. Cortés can correct your bite permanently. Speak with Dr. Cortés about the best long term management for you.
A holistic approach to Neuromuscular Dentistry
Dr. Cortés will measure the position of your jaw and determine your optimal jaw position. She will then work with you to realign your bite and restore teeth to this position. Once your bite is realigned and jaw is in place, the TMJ pain and symptoms disappear.
