Physiologic or Neuromuscular TMJ treatment differs from traditional TMJ treatment in several significant ways. Traditional TMJ focuses on purely on the teeth and immediate jaw area as opposed to looking at the “whole” system which includes the muscles, joints, neck and nerves of more than just the head. It should include the neck, shoulders and, in many cases, the lower extremities.
This gentleman was constantly breaking teeth and having crowns placed. Additionally, experiencing TMJ pain and had difficulty chewing, as well as snoring. It is easy to see in the photos how damaged the teeth are due to his misaligned bite and overbite. Rather than keep restoring his teeth to the bad bite, Dr. Konig re-aligned his bite, muscles, and cervical posture to the corrected physiologic position. A combination of customized ceramic crowns and porcelain veneers were utilized. This not only allowed the teeth to be built up as opposed to grinding down, but also restored him to a healthier airway, muscles and comfort as well as allowed for a beautiful smile.
Simply placing a large “splint” on the teeth is not really treatment and it is difficult if not impossible to talk or eat with. Additionally, when removed the jaw and muscles go back to their pathologic position.
This is not to say that traditional TMJ treatment is not helpful as it can help some patients, however, these are often temporary relief or partial help. Whereas, the physiologic approach, by helping to the “whole body” by focusing on the system that connects these joints and nerves to the surrounding body. This allows for helping with migraines, cervical pain, ear pain, shoulder pain, and facial pain that is very often associated with TMJ issues.
Dr. Konig explains, “Most of the time a fixed orthotic that looks and feels like ones teeth can be used to realign and reposition the jaw and muscles to the correct physiologic position. This allows patients to eat, chew, and speak normally as well as test drive the new relationship.”
Those neuromuscular TMJ dentists that are up to date utilize computerized technology to help evaluate and diagnose these problems. Additionally, 3D scans allow for analyzing the neck, jaw, and full cranial alignment as well as the neck alignment and C1 alignment.
A simple example of this is knowing that a misaligned jaw can cause rotation of C1 in the neck. This can cause headaches as well as lower neck and shoulder problems. In short, astute TMJ dentists will have an excellent knowledge of more than just the teeth and jaw joint and any exam or treatment should look at the whole picture for long term help.
If you have any questions about Houston TMJ or Houston TMJ Dentist, please feel free to contact our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF 713-668-2289.