Comprehensive TMJ and Head and Neck Muscle Evaluation

TMJ Disorders

TMJ stands for the temporal-mandibular joint, which is vital in the function and movement of the jaw. Complications in this joint may be caused by misalignment of the teeth, trauma, or excessive muscle tension. Problems in the TMJ can cause headaches, earaches, popping of the jaw, pain in the jaw muscles, and soreness in the area that may extend to the face. Dr. Denson has various methods for TMJ treatments, including professional nightguards and laser therapy. 

You Might Benefit From A Professional Nightguard If You:

  • Wake up from your sleep clenching your teeth 
  • See small craze lines in your teeth  
  • Have experienced several cracked teeth 
  • Have pain in the morning in your jaw 
  • Have small notches at the gumline of your teeth 
  • Get headaches and a sore neck regularly

What To Expect

YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

At your first appointment, a TMJ assessment will be performed,  checking your range of movement, feeling for tension in the muscles surrounding the jaw, and  checking for clicking or crepitus (crackling noise) and nerve asymmetry. Since there are many  TMJ appliances, careful assessment is necessary to ensure the right appliance is chosen for you.   After your assessment, an impression of your teeth is taken with a putty-like material and sent to  our laboratory technician to create a strong, durable appliance that lasts for many years.

YOUR SECOND APPOINTMENT

During your second appointment, we will have your new oral  appliance ready for you. We will provide instructions on how to place the appliance, as well as  take it out and clean it. We will also review the benefits of using the nightguard and the  disadvantages of not using it. Be assured, Dr. Denson will have your TMJ therapy in your best  interest, and following her instructions should help minimize any symptoms you may be  experiencing .

We Do Dentistry Different

At Denson Downtown Dental, we wish to bring the highest level of contemporary, innovative, and compassionate care to the your entire family. We truly think of every patient as a friend, and are honored to provide you with exceptional dental care.