Neuromuscular Dentistry

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Neuromuscular Dentistry

When harmony between the teeth, the facial muscles, and the temporomandibular joints no longer exists, symptoms of what has been identified as TMJ/ TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) arise. TMD is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed or non diagnosed conditions, and many patients may go for years without treatment. The symptoms number in the hundreds and don’t affect people equally and has made accurate and consistent diagnosis of the condition very difficult. Although this problem may arise on it’s own,  it may be brought on by things such as increased physical and emotional stresses as well as physical injuries, such as whiplash. Menopause or other hormonal changes, are also factors that may impact chronic pain as some patients unconsciously grind and/or clench their teeth in response to increased stress. Most people who grind their teeth do it while they are asleep and may not know they are doing it. Other causes are loss of molar teeth, a “bad” bite or arthritis. The effects of TMD are far reaching and range from mild to severe. A list of the most common symptoms appears to the right, and it’s not unusual to have multiples of them all at the same time. Children as well may be affected at any age.

If a thorough examination shows that the bite may be a contributing cause of your problem, then a temporary appliance may be fabricated that is both diagnostic and therapeutic. This appliance needs to be measured and fitted very accurately so that when you bite on it all your teeth meet at exactly the same time in a position where your muscles are relaxed.  Dr. Saruna has helped many Ontario residents by finding the root cause of their pain and provided a functional solution commonly through the use of appliance therapy, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, dental treatments, or other multidisciplinary networking. Long term use of pain medications can often mask the symptoms, do not treat the underlying cause and may have undesirable effects side effects. For severe cases, we may use state-of-the-art electromyographic scanning technology to objectively measure and document muscle activity and fatigue in real time to help achieve a balanced bite and find relief from TMJ symptoms. .“The goal is a conservative, non-surgical and preventive approach for long term comfort and overall health. Trust your teeth to a dentist who does much more than improve the appearance of your smile. Call or e-mail  Dr. Saruna for experienced neuromuscular dentistry in Windsor/Essex County.

Symptoms of TMJ include:

  • Clicking or popping of the Jaw
  • Neck Soreness or Stiffness
  • Pain in the Jaw Joints
  • Uneven Bite
  • Tooth Pain
  • Unexplained Tooth Loss
  • Headaches and Migraines
  • Loose Teeth
  • Worn, Chipped, Cracked or Broken Teeth
  • Numbness in the Arms and Fingers
  • Shoulder, Neck and Back Pain
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Receding Gums
  • Tinnitus (Ringing or Itchy Ears)

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