TMJ Splints
One of the most frequently used joints in your body is your jaw joint. Clinically referred to as your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), it is the flexible ball and socket joint located just in front of your ears and connects your lower jaw to your skull. It is this joint which allows your upper and lower jaw to open and close, move from side to side and enables you to chew, swallow and speak.

When your jaw is out of alignment physiological conditions including headaches, migraines, jaw pain, and neck and shoulder discomfort can occur. These conditions can incorrectly be attributed to back problems and not jaw misalignment. Neuromuscular Dentistry serves to realign your jaw by correcting your bite.

The first step is to determine the ideal position of your jaw by measuring your head and neck muscles while they are in a relaxed position, then we reposition your jaw to those precise measurements.

Every patient will display different symptoms requiring various treatment options. Malocclusion (bite misalignment) is relatively easy to correct with options ranging from adjusting your bite through orthodontics or a custom designed bite splint made to fit the contour of your teeth and gums, often used in addition to relaxation techniques, as some symptoms can return during times of stress.

When the use of a bite splint is recommended, a detailed mould of your mouth is taken from which an acrylic guard is made. Similar in appearance to a sports mouthguard only much finer, this splint is designed to reposition your jaw and reduce the stress on your jaw muscles from constant clenching, it will also reduce any damage caused to your teeth from grinding.

After careful examination we will advise you when to wear your TMJ splint, often at night is the most common and during times of stress, we can also help you with some relaxation techniques to limit the severity of your TMJ soreness.
If you suffer from severe headaches and jaw muscle soreness, especially in the mornings, would like further information or to schedule a consultation appointment, please call one of our friendly team today.