Clicking, popping, and pain around the temples and jaw can be symptoms of an underlying problem called temporomandibular disorder (TMD), more commonly referred to as TMJ. As suggested by theislandnow experts temporomandibular disorder occurs when there is disharmony between the jaw joint and muscles, and/or teeth. If a person does not undergo TMJ treatment, they can suffer debilitating consequences.
San Luis Obispo dentist Dr. Troy Slade is an expert in TMJ treatment. He has completed advanced training in neuromuscular dentistry and understands the many ways in which TMJ can affect a person’s health. His in-depth understanding and experience with this complex condition allow him to treat everything from simple to serious cases.
If you suffer from jaw or neck pain, you may benefit from neuromuscular dentistry treatments in San Luis Obispo. Request your consultation online or call (805) 544-7804(805) 544-7804 to schedule an appointment.
Things to Smile About Reduction or elimination of headaches
Reduction or elimination of jaw pain
Heightened self-confidence
Improved bite position
Enhanced aesthetics
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There are many different schools of thought about how to best treat TMJ. Dr. Slade has completed advanced post-graduate education courses through the Las Vegas Institute, LVI Global, and Occlusion Connections® for neuromuscular dentistry. Dr. Slade understands the intricate relationship between the jaw joints, muscles, and teeth and uses a combination of forward-thinking approaches to treat disorders of the jaw. His ultimate goal is to restore your optimal bite where the joints, muscles, and teeth are in harmony.
TMJ can manifest in many different ways. Symptoms of TMJ can include:
- Headaches
- Jaw popping
- Limited jaw extension
- Ear congestion
- Vertigo (dizziness)
- Ringing in the ears
- Neck pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loose teeth
- Clenching/bruxing
- Numbness of fingertips
- Insomnia
- Facial pain
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Your TMJ Transformation
It’s important that you first receive a thorough examination to determine if you suffer from TMJ. Dr. Slade will ask you a series of questions and assess your jaw position and bite. He will also evaluate the condition of your teeth and check for enamel loss or tooth wear, which can indicate TMJ.
Because of his in-depth understanding of proper bite management, Dr. Slade uses neuromuscular principles in his larger comprehensive cases to ensure the patient’s bite is in its ideal position, even if the original assessment does not reveal TMJ. This ensures that symptoms will not arise later, which can be common for those who have had a lot of dental work done in the past.
If your assessment reveals TMJ, Dr. Slade will develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the function and look of your smile. Your personalized treatment plan might include jaw and bite therapies, oral surgery, prescription medication, oral appliances, and/or orthodontics. He may include other restorative dentistry techniques to improve your jaw and bite position and reduce TMJ symptoms.
After TMJ Treatment
Our patients who undergo TMJ therapy notice a dramatic improvement in their appearance and quality of life. The relief from painful TMJ symptoms can be life-changing. Chronic headaches, jaw pain, dizziness, and other types of facial pain can be almost, if not completely, eliminated. Plus, with the help of additional treatments such as veneers or teeth whitening, your smile can be bright, beautiful, and healthy.
