The field of neuromuscular dentistry and holistic TMJ treatment is an innovative approach to diagnosing and treating issues related to the temporomandibular joint. At Kelley Mingus, a leading dental practice in Bend, Oregon, we focus on holistic TMJ treatments and comprehensive approaches to neuromuscular dentistry as part of our wide array of services.
What Is TMJ and Neuromuscular Dentistry?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, acting as a hinge that allows you to open and close your mouth. A TMJ disorder can cause a range of debilitating symptoms, including jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and an uncomfortable clicking or popping sensation.
Neuromuscular dentistry, on the other hand, studies the relationship between the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. It focuses on how your muscles, nerves, and joints work in harmony when your mouth is in its optimal resting position.
The Connection Between TMJ and Neuromuscular Dentistry
When it comes to TMJ treatment, understanding the intricacies of neuromuscular dentistry is crucial. Since neuromuscular dentistry takes a holistic approach, treating a TMJ disorder involves correcting the alignment of your jaw, improving muscle function, and alleviating nerve-related issues. All these contribute to a holistic TMJ treatment.
Improving Jaw Alignment
Addressing TMJ disorders often involves correcting the alignment of your jaw. When the jaw is misaligned, it can put strain on the surrounding ligaments, muscles, and nerves, leading to TMJ symptoms. At Kelley Mingus, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify any misalignment issues and design a TMJ treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Restoring Muscle Function
The muscles surrounding your jaw play a significant role in maintaining optimal oral health. When these muscles are tense or strained, it can lead to symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth. As part of our holistic TMJ treatment, we consider the entire muscular system, aiming to restore full function and alleviate discomfort.
Enhancing Nerve Health
Nerves are an essential element in your oral health, transmitting signals between your brain and your oral tissues. If these nerves are irritated or compressed due to a TMJ disorder, you may experience pain, discomfort, and limited jaw mobility. Through holistic TMJ treatment, we aim to alleviate these symptoms and promote overall nerve health.
The Benefits of Holistic TMJ Treatment
Holistic TMJ treatment has several benefits that extend beyond merely relieving symptoms.
- Long-term Relief: Addressing the underlying cause of the disorder – misalignment, muscle tension, or nerve irritation – can provide long-term relief from TMJ symptoms, unlike symptomatic treatments that can only provide temporary relief.
- Whole-Body Health: By considering the entire muscular system in the treatment of TMJ, we can improve overall health. A balanced oral environment can contribute to improved posture, better sleep, and increased physical comfort.
- Improved Oral Function: Treating TMJ disorder can enhance your overall oral function, making everyday tasks such as eating and talking more comfortable.
- Pain Reduction: Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain and discomfort following holistic TMJ treatment, improving their overall quality of life.
Successfully Treating TMJ at Kelley Mingus
At Kelley Mingus, we have had countless success stories from patients who have undergone holistic TMJ treatment. One such patient, Janet, saw significant improvements following her treatment. She was suffering from severe dental health issues following her cancer treatment, including decayed teeth and an impacted bite that disrupted her sleep. After a thorough TMJ treatment plan, Janet reported no pain, improved sleep, and increased confidence in her smile.
Conclusion
Holistic TMJ treatment in neuromuscular dentistry is a critical aspect of ensuring oral health and overall wellbeing. At Kelley Mingus, Dr. Mingus and his experienced team are committed to providing a comprehensive, individually tailored TMJ treatment plan to help you regain your oral health and improve your overall quality of life.