Sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and suddenly you find yourself dealing with a condition that’s completely foreign to you. Take TMJ disorder, for example. Commonly referred to as TMJ, this condition affects the temporomandibular joint, the hinge connecting your jaw to your temporal bones (the bones in front of your ears). Luckily, holistic TMJ treatment is available here in Bend, Oregon, at the practice of Dr. Kelley Mingus, where unique and innovative options for TMJ relief are provided.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
The factors leading to TMJ disorders are as varied as they are insidious. A misaligned bite, physical stress on the joint, arthritis, or even a jarring blow to the area can spark the onset of the disorder. Unfortunately, TMJ disorder isn’t always simple to diagnose, as its symptoms span a wide range of ailments that are often attributed to other conditions. These symptoms include:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Pain in either or both of the temporomandibular joints
- Aching pain around or in the ear
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Jaw locking, making it hard to open or close your mouth
- A grating sensation when you chew or open your mouth
However, the severity of these symptoms can vary, and it’s crucial to remember that TMJ disorder doesn’t always culminate in pain or discomfort. With different symptoms surfacing individually or in tandem, it’s easy to see how TMJ disorder can go unnoticed or be misdiagnosed.
The Holistic Approach to TMJ Therapy
Recognizing these challenges, Dr. Kelley Mingus has built a reputation on providing holistic TMJ treatments for his patients in Bend, Oregon. However, it’s important to note that holistic treatment here goes beyond buzzwords. Dr. Mingus’s approach is unique in the world of dentistry, standing out for its comprehensive dedication to ensuring harmony within the oral environment. From teeth cleaning and cosmetic dentistry to more specialized areas like neuromuscular dentistry and epigenetic orthodontics, the focus is always on promoting overall health.
At Dr. Kelley Mingus’s practice, TMJ treatment starts by addressing the root causes of the disorder. A holistic TMJ therapy plan includes:
- A comprehensive evaluation, including digital X-rays, computerized jaw tracking, and a thorough muscle examination.
- Bite analysis to detect any signs of jaw misalignment that could be causing the disorder.
- Pain relief measures tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Orthodontics and TMJ Disorder
You might be wondering how orthodontics fits into this picture. As it turns out, misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite can contribute to TMJ disorder. This is where orthodontics comes into play. Through carefully planned orthodontics, Dr. Mingus can correct these issues, setting the foundation for a harmonious oral environment.
Neuromuscular Dentistry
Dr. Mingus’s holistic therapy approach incorporates elements of neuromuscular dentistry. For those unfamiliar with the term, neuromuscular dentistry focuses on the optimal relationship between the position of the jaw and the surrounding structures. It may even involve full mouth rehabilitation in severe cases causing extreme discomfort or pain.
A Look at Epigenetic Orthodontics
One of the other tools wielded by Dr. Mingus is epigenetic orthodontics. This science-based approach promotes the healthy growth, guidance, and alignment of the teeth and jaw. Epigenetic orthodontics can be a game-changer for those dealing with TMJ disorder, as it provides a route to natural, long-term relief by addressing the core issues leading to the condition.
New Face of Smile Makeovers
Under the skilled hands of Dr. Mingus, porcelain veneers become about more than just cosmetic dentistry. These thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials can also contribute to TMJ treatment plans. By providing the necessary support, veneers can help alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joint, promoting healing and reduction in TMJ symptoms.
Practical Advantages of Metal-Free Restorations
In addition to porcelain veneers, metal-free restorations are also offered at Dr. Mingus’s practice. With a preference for biocompatible materials, this approach leans towards holistic TMJ treatment and aesthetic restorations. Metal-free restorations are not only safe and long-lasting, but they also contribute to overall oral health. They fit into Dr. Mingus’s philosophy of providing services that cover all bases, from general dentistry to cosmetic procedures.
Sleep Apnea and TMJ Disorder
Patients dealing with TMJ disorder often struggle with sleep apnea as well. This poses an additional challenge as the two conditions can often exacerbate each other. When seeking treatment for one condition, patients may find that addressing both simultaneously can provide a significant boost in their overall health and quality of life. For this reason, combining TMJ treatment plans with ongoing sleep apnea therapy has become a common practice, targeting both the source and the symptoms of these disorders.
A True Solution for TMJ
TMJ disorder is not a condition to be taken lightly. Suffering silently will not bring relief. Fortunately, Dr. Kelley Mingus’s holistic approach to dentistry and TMJ therapy has proven to be a successful solution for many in Bend, Oregon. Each plan is carefully tailored to the patient’s unique condition, bringing long-standing relief and restoration of function. TMJ doesn’t have to control your life when you have a team like Dr. Mingus’s on your side.
Book Your TMJ Evaluation Today
There’s no reason to struggle with the disruptive symptoms of TMJ disorder. At Dr. Kelley Mingus’s practice in Bend, you can take the first step towards relief by scheduling a comprehensive TMJ evaluation. Along with dedicated healthcare teams and various holistic TMJ therapy options, a healthier, happier life is within your reach.