Neuromuscular Dentistry
As graduates of the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, our doctors are at the forefront of an exciting new approach to dentistry, known as neuromuscular care. Expertly trained in using the latest technology to determine your jaw's most relaxed position, they can devise a treatment plan to correct your bite, eliminating painful symptoms associated with TMJ, such as headaches and sinus problems.
What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (also known as TMJ) is a chronic, degenerative disease that may take years to develop. People who suffer from TMJ have a structural imbalance in their jaw-to-skull relationship that is caused by a poor bite. This condition puts excessive pressure on the joints and surrounding tissues, twisting the jaw into an unnatural, tensed position. Often, a popping or clicking sound can actually be heard when a TMJ sufferer chews. Muscles in the face, back, neck and shoulders may also be affected, leading to symptoms that range from headaches to numbness in the hands.
Symptoms
You may be a candidate for neuromuscular dentistry if you experience any of the following symptoms on a regular basis:
- Headaches or migraines
- Pain or soreness around the jaw joints
- Facial pain
- Neck, shoulder or back pain
- Numbness in your fingers and arms
- Congestion or stuffiness of the ears
- Worn, chipped or cracked teeth
- Cracked, chipped or broken dental restorations
- Unexplained loose teeth
- Pain in the teeth that seems to move around
- Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
- Limited movement or locking jaw
Neuromuscular Treatment
TMJ can now be easily and painlessly detected using a state-of-the-art electrical muscle stimulator or TENSing unit and a sophisticated piece of equipment called the Myotronics K7. Your facial muscles will be exercised, built-up toxins will be released and your jaw's optimum relaxed position will be determined.
To correct your bite, our doctors will most likely use dental restorations to precisely raise or lower areas of your jaw into a more natural position. In most cases, they can reposition your bite and complete the treatment in a few short weeks.
Results
Following treatment to correct TMJ, most patients experience a significant lessening to a complete cessation of symptoms. Imagine living headache free after enduring the pain for years! And as an added bonus, most patients also report positive aesthetic results-some are even asked if they've had a facelift.
Dr Chong Lee DDS and Dr Joseph Oh DDS: LVI Dentists - Providing services in cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry and tmj treatment to the areas of Fairfax, Arlington and McLean, Virginia.
Fairfax neuromuscular dentistry
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