We provide dentistry for TMJ Therapy and related dental health services. TMD/TMJ Disorder, Treatment & Therapy
TMJ/TMD disorder identifies number of conditions that frequently involve the jaw joints, the muscles that control the jaws movement, and the dental occlusion (bite). Tempromadibular disorders (TMD) can result from an imbalance in the delicate working relationship of the jaw, skull, and the functional masticatory muscles. Symptoms can manifest as muscle fatigue, spasm and/or joint dysfunction which may lead to osseous changes. These osseous changes may in turn affect a person’s overall occlusion (bite).
Treatments for TMJ Disorder:
There are a variety of options for treatment and treatment of symptoms associated with TMJ Disorder depending on you unique circumstances:
Restoration of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth
• Splint, more commonly known as night mouth guards
• Nighttime biofeedback
• Pain relief
TMJ appliances are devices worn to help treat a variety of temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly referred to as TMD (see TMJ Therapy) Myofascial pain, or pain in the muscles of the jaw is the most common temporomandibular disorder. The etiology of myofascial pain is multifactorial and as a result TMJ appliances are varied, depending upon the severity of the problem.
The most common TMJ appliance used in the management of TMD in our office is a specific type of splint, known as the Tanner appliance. During the course of time spent at the L.D. Pankey Institute, Dr. Hansen has studied workings and treatment philosophy of Henry Tanner, the gentleman after whom this splint was named. A Tanner appliance is a type of stabilization splint, custom made of hard acrylic and made at our office. The Tanner appliance is designed after taking impressions of the upper and lower dental arches, face bow registration, and recording of centric relation occlusion. This data is carefully analyzed and a comprehensive diagnosis is made by Dr. Hansen so that proper treatment can begin. The goal of Tanner appliance therapy is to control the discomfort of myofascial pain and prevent derangement in the joint spaces.
During the course of therapy adjustments are made to the Tanner appliance upon examination of signs of wear on the splint. Patients are seen by Dr. Hansen at set intervals for evaluation. It should be anticipated that our patients will be in therapy wearing the Tanner appliance for at least six months.
Our approach to long term treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition:
• Manual adjustment of the bite by occlusal adjustment
• Habit Modification
• Mandibular re-positioning splints
• Reconstructive dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Arthrocentesis (joint irrigation)
It’s our goal to properly diagnose these conditions and to help restore comfort and function to patients who suffer from this disease process
Dr. James B Hansen, II