Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

In Toronto and Mississauga, Ontario

Neuromuscular dentistry differs from general dentistry in that, instead of targeting the teeth, bones and gums, it is focused on the muscles and nerves that control the movement and functioning of the mouth and jaw. Neuromuscular dentistry is often used to treat the symptoms of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder).

What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)?

TMD is a chronic condition that occurs when there is an imbalance in the relationship between the muscles in the jaw and head, and is often the result of a misaligned bite and an unfavorable jaw position.

TMD can cause ongoing pain and a number of other problems for patients including:

• Recurring headaches/migraines
• Ongoing soreness in the jaw
• Muscle spasms and/or stiffness in the neck and jaw areas
• Clicking or popping noises in the jaw joints
• Shoulder and neck tension and pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or vertigo
• Chronic sinus problems, congestion and stuffiness
• Loose, chipped or cracked teeth or dental restorations (crowns and bridges)
• Limited movement of the jaw or “locked jaw”

Fortunately, patients who suffer from TMD can often turn to neuromuscular dentistry for comprehensive treatment that includes correcting a bad bite and realigning the jaw to a more comfortable position.

TMD Treatments

Specific treatment options might include:

• Sophisticated testing and measuring for the most advantageous jaw position
• Recording of jaw movements and the mouth’s path to closure
• Using ULF-TENS (Ultra Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation) or other advanced technologies to relieve pain through muscle relaxation
• Stabilizing the bite with a temporary orthotic
• Braces and other orthodontics to reposition the jaw over time
• Fitting teeth with dental restorations

At Willow Dental Associates, we believe in making sure our neuromuscular professionals have the best continuing education available to them so that they can not only treat TMD, but also recognize the highly misdiagnosed signs of the condition. That is why our team has trained at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, the leading educational facility for neuromuscular dentists.

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD, neuromuscular dentistry may be the answer you need. For a consultation, please contact the Mississauga, Ontario neuromuscular dentists at Willow Dental Associates today to schedule a consultation.