| Neuromuscular Dentist Rochester NY |
New York TMJ TMD |
Craniofacial Pain Disorders |
|
| Paul I. Sussman, D.M.D. - Meredith A. Pogal, D.M.D. |
(585) 227-4390; Fax: 585 227-5215 |
Neuromuscular Bite
324 Greece Ridge Center Dr
Rochester, NY 14626
|
Rochester Neuromuscular Dentistry
TMJ and TMD pain and similar ailments affecting even the head and neck more often than not arise from disorders or disruptions of the occlusal relationship.
Our bite and occlusion characteristics, in a normalized state, provide perfect physical properties to the movements of our jaws throughout the day while speaking and eating. There is also a normalized resting position of our jaws, as when we sleep (discounting possible sleep apnea and snoring problems).
In theory, it is the disruption of this intricate musculoskeletal balance affecting our jaws that can initiate an untold number of bite and occlusion problems, jaw pain, ringing of the ears, migraine headaches, etc., which further aggravates the muscles that operate the jaws.
Surprisingly, an event as simple as a tooth extraction or an improperly fitted crown can initiate a change in the occlusal relationship. Failure to seek treatment for certain tooth structures can also change certain bite characteristics, especially if the bite, or height of bite (vertical dimension) begins to close.
In cases where significant vertical dimension is lost, say through excess wear and tear on tooth structures that goes untreated for an extended time, the mandible (lower jaw) will actually begin to move forward in an effort to find a more normal resting position.
As the jaw muscles become distended and tm joints are affected, the pain and discomfort begins to increase. How this progression occurs for each patient is directly related to how the process was initiated and how long the history is.
The treatment plan for correcting the occlusal relationship is usually different for each and every patient despite the possibility of having the exact same symptoms.
Differential Diagnosis in Neuromuscular Dental Treatments
Dr. Sussman and Dr. Pogal use a variety of diagnostic data to determine the etiology of neuromuscular and craniofacial pain. Reconstructive or restorative dental procedures may be included in the treatment, to address any number of dentition related issues that may have played a part.
TENSing (Transcutaneous Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation) the affected muscles in time, reinstates what is supposed to be a normalized state for the patient, given his or her unique jaw structures and optimal occlusion.
Electromyography, for measuring the accurate fit of the bite, helps to confirm the adequacy of newly restored or replaced teeth for maintaining normal muscle tension. Jaw tracking devices are also used, as needed, to further confirm that all operational movements of the jaws have achieved normalcy.
The length of treatment is totally dependent upon the extent of dysfunction and treatments required for correcting the physical properties of the patient's bite. Examples might include new crowns, onlays, extractions, implants, bridgework, dentures, orthodontics, fitting of specialized splints or possible night guards for treating bruxism.
Stubborn Craniofacial TMD - TMJ Migraine Head and Neck Pain
Patients who have a seemingly unsuccessful treatment history for a variety of recurrent or migraine headaches, ear ringing, jaw pain, tm joint paid are invited to obtain a consult with Dr. Sussman or Dr. Pogal. Treating the neuromuscular basis for this type of pain, for most patients, proves significantly more worthwhile than treating the symptom (taking popular pain relievers).
Contact Dr. Sussman, Dr. Pogal or our Dental Team at (585) 227-4390 today to arrange a TMJ consult to determine how a specialized treatment program can effectively address certain craniofacial pain issues you may be experiencing.
|
|
|
