Neuromuscular/TMJ

Cosmetic Dentistry - Neuromuscular/TMJ FAQ

Q: What is neuromuscular dentistry?

A: Neuromuscular dentistry is the art and science of using your relaxed head and neck muscles to place your jaw into its optimal physiologic position. Using this technique before restorative dentistry can greatly increase the longevity of your restorations and your natural bite. If you currently suffer from various levels of head and neck pain, you should be aware of 25 years of research and clinical experience that have shown neuromuscular dentistry to be effective in treating pain.

Q: What is TMJ?

A: Your Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint where your mandible (your lower jaw) joins the temporal bone of your skull, immediately in front of your ear on each side of your head. Your TMJ, if not properly aligned, can cause Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) also referred to as Myofascial Pain Dysfunction (MPD) or Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJS).

Q: Why does this joint become painful?

A: If left untreated, TMJ problems can lead to many types of chronic pain. When grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, or even chewing gum, you often put extra wear and tear on the cartilage in your jaw. Additionally, your misaligned bite can add to the pain and discomfort, as can arthritis.

If you wear out the cartilage enough, you may hear clicking or popping sounds when your jaw shifts back and forth, indicating that it is out of its proper alignment. Because of this pressure on your jaw when it is moving, you may experience pain or even lock your jaw in a closed or open position. Another indication that you may need assistance is ringing in your ears.

Dr. Konig is qualified to treat these problems (usually without surgery or braces), and he can greatly relieve your pain through his treatment.

Q: What types of problems can neuromuscular dentistry solve?

A: Neuromuscular dentistry can solve many of the problems from which you may suffer, including:

• headaches
• unexplained loose tooth or teeth
• worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
• cracked, chipped, or broken dental restorations you previously had done
• ain or soreness around your jaw joints
• pain in your teeth that seems to move around
• chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain,
• facial pain
• clicking or grating sounds in your jaw joints
• limited movement in your jaw or locking jaw
• numbness in your fingers and arms
• congestion or stuffiness or
• ringing in your ears

Q: What is the procedure involved in treating my pain through neuromuscular dentistry?

A: Dr. Konig's procedure involves using a sophisticated computerized process which records and interprets your TMJ (see What is TMJ? above) sounds, masticatory (chewing) muscle activity, and the path of movement your jaw follows when in use. This process allows Dr. Konig to find the most relaxed physiological position for your jaw. Using this information combined with tomography (a specialized jaw joint x-ray) helps determine your best bite position for comfort as well as for your natural beauty.

For more information about neuromuscular dentistry/TMJ or to schedule a smile evaluation in our state-of-the-art, Houston, Texas, dental office, please email or call us today.