Neuromuscular Orthodontics
Serving Patients from Medford, Klamath Falls, Ashland, Yreka and Central Point
We use neuromuscular orthodontics to correct bite problems that cause temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD is usually caused by a misalignment of the upper and lower jaw and can lead to many painful symptoms including tension headaches, sore teeth, limited jaw movements, and earaches. Many individuals develop bite problems later in life, even if they have had braces as an adolescent and have otherwise straight teeth. While braces will straighten your teeth, they are sometimes not enough to correct other bite problems.
Diagnosis and treatment
You will need to be evaluated by a qualified neuromuscular dentist to determine the exact causes and severity of your TMD. During this visit, your dentist will relax your jaw and facial muscles with our transcutaneous neural stimulator (TENS) machine. With your muscles relaxed, your dentist can determine where your proper bite should be, and the existence of any muscle shortening that has occurred because of your TMD. Part of your therapy will involve stretching these shortened muscles to their proper length so as to permit healthy circulation.
Often it is only a couple of teeth that are causing bite problems but sometimes there are much more significant causes such as an over- or under-developed upper or lower jaw. Your neuromuscular orthodontic treatment will depend entirely on the exact cause of your TMD. Treatment options include any combination of the following:
- Braces and Retainers - Traditional orthodontic treatments may be all that is necessary to restore your proper bite.
- Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment - If only a few of your teeth are causing your misalignment, then porcelain cosmetic treatments may be all that is necessary.
- Full-Mouth Reconstruction - This typically involves a combination of many functional and cosmetic dental procedures. Maxillofacial surgery may be required in some cases.
- Orthotic Device - Once your proper bite is determined by the dentist, a removable plastic device is designed to make sure your proper bite is maintained.
- Mouthguards - Similar to orthotic devices, Pure Power Mouthguards are designed for wear during participation in sports events, assisting with muscle and vertebrae alignment for optimum athletic performance.
The causes of TMD often extend into other medical fields outside of dentistry. If it is determined that you suffer from TMD, it may be necessary to refer you to other specialists. If you live in Southern Oregon and are suffering from the often painful, debilitating effects of TMD, Eagle Point Dental can help. Please contact us today to arrange an appointment.
800.899.6990
Contact Us
Eagle Point Dental Center for Advanced Dentistry
217 W. Main St
Eagle Point, OR 97524
