Physiologic Dentistry Involves Understanding How the Muscles Power the TMJ
When the nerves, muscles, hard and soft tissues in the jaw and mouth get fatigued, damaged or misaligned, you need a physiologic dentist to assess the issue and provide the most effective treatment. We have physiologic dentists practicing in Barrie. Physiologic dentistry involves understanding how the muscles power the temporomandibular jaw joint and how nerves keep the muscles moving the right way.
The TMJ is located on either side of the face. This joint is the one that helps you to open and close your mouth when speaking, chewing and yawning. If the muscles that support the TMJ get inflamed, they may compress the nerves of the neck, shoulders and head. This often leads to pain. Our dentists can treat the cause of TMJ-related pain. They do this by identifying jaw misalignment and correcting it.
Several treatment options are available for you to consider. Some may require the expertise of an orthodontist, while others, like flossing or brushing in a gentle manner, do not. Our expert knows how to fix black triangles in teeth using all the available methods, including interproximal reduction, hyaluronic acid treatment, veneers, braces, and composite resin. Talk to us, and we will identify the most comfortable and effective option for you.
Symptoms of Jaw Misalignment
The cause of jaw misalignment is usually not obvious. A patient may be unaware that their jaw is misaligned and causing the pain. A physiologic dentist can help diagnose jaw misalignment and recommend the best treatment.
Just like a broken hinge, the TMJ may get damaged. Our dentists will use a number of tests and neuromuscular evaluation to identify the primary cause of the pain. The tests performed may include the following:
- A thorough examination of the jaw
- Digital X-rays
- TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). This uses a low current electrical pulse to relax the jaw.
In determining jaw misalignment, the dentist may also use K7 Evaluation System. This is done through the measurement of:
- Jaw sounds (sonography)
- Jaw movement (mandibular screening)
- Muscle activity (electromyography)
If you have a misaligned jaw, get in touch with the team at Molson Park Dental Office for an assessment. We serve patients in Barrie.
SYMPTOMS
Jaw Misalignment
Treatments
Physiologic Health
Treatments for Misaligned Jaw:
- Appliance therapy: This is an oral appliance that will allow your jaw to rest in the right physiological position.
- Restorative therapy: This involves changing or building up the shape of the teeth in order to support the physiological as well as the comfortable position of the bite.
- Invisalign®: The ‘invisible’ braces are used to shift the teeth gently to the right position. It is also used when you need more space in the mouth in combination with dental bridges and porcelain veneers.
- Filling gaps in the smile: Replacing the missing teeth helps stop teeth from shifting.
- Botox injection: The treatment helps alter nerve conduction selectively. This can help alleviate pain.
Are you experiencing pain or discomfort and you suspect you have a misaligned jaw? Contact Molson Park Dental Office today for a free consultation.
We are a Family Friendly Practice
At Molson Park Dental Office, we provide family dentistry services. Toronto and Barrie dentist, Dr. Layth works with every child to build trust and comfort through the entire dental visit process.
