| Dr. Ronald WidenRecent findings do not support the conclusions of the few previous studies that found TMD is self-limiting and rarely progresses to chronic joint derangement. Frequently that chronic click goes away, but unfortunately it is accompanied by the inability to now open your mouth freely. That jaw that was able to “click” on the disk can no longer get onto the disk. Therefore, symptom improvement is related to definite TMJ treatment and not due solely to the passage of time. So no, you won’t get better by waiting. Start your treatment today!
Once Dr. Widen diagnoses you with TMD/ TMJ Dysfunction, he determines the best course of treatment for your specific needs. Typically, treatment follows 2 Phases:
Phase 1
- Relieve muscle spasm and pain.
- Heal TMJ Joints
- Stabilize the bite.
The J-5 Myomonitor is a FDA approved muscle stimulating device that relaxes muscles of both the jaw and neck simultaneously using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS. It produces an Ultra Low Frequency pulse (.75 Hz) which stimulates a nerve and in turn relaxes the muscles attached to that nerve. The guest controls this battery powered device which:
- Relieves Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction & associated pain
- Decreases symptoms associated with muscle spasm
- Relaxes muscles to establish a physiologic biting position
- Helps to take bite registrations
- Increases blood circulation of chewing muscles
- Maintains or increases the range of motion of the lower jaw
The J5 gives us an accurate reproducible physiologic rest area or the area in which measurements of muscle activity is calmest. The ultimate goal is relaxed muscles and relaxed muscles are free from tension and pain. Consequently, these muscles will function properly when chewing, speaking and smiling. Tense muscles can cause head, neck and back pain and this new technology help relieve some of these symptoms. An orthotic (below) is constructed to fit over the teeth to help the muscles relax at the position as determined by Dr. Widen with the help of the J5.
Natural Fit Orthotic
Phase 2
Once symptoms are relieved and the bite has been stabilized, you and Dr. Widen will discuss moving on to the next step to permanently stabilize your bite at the new position. This may include: smoothing and reshaping the enamel of the teeth, removable overlay partial dentures, reconstruction by adding porcelain or composite to the tops of the teeth at the new bite position or orthodontics (Braces).