Dentist Alpharetta, Dentist Roswell, Dentist Johns Creek, Dentist North Fulton, Cosmetic
 
  TMJ Therapy

The purpose of the Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) is to act as a "door on a hinge", allowing the mouth to open and close properly. The teeth are the support for this joint. In the case of a malocclusion, (teeth do not fit together).

Many clinical manifestations can be seen when someone grinds or clenches their teeth:
  1. The teeth may exhibit excessive wear or cracking, weakening the teeth.
  2. The teeth may be mobile, causing a stretching of the gingival fibers and compromising gum health.
  3. The teeth may exhibit sensitivity, sometimes severe, to biting, chewing and cold. This can limit eating and cleaning of the teeth.
  4. The muscles of the head and face can become over worked causing muscle soreness and headaches.
  5. The malocclusion can contribute to the displacement of the TMJ condyles causing popping, clicking, ringing in the ears, vertigo, and pain in the joint.


In Fig.1, the TMJ is in the correct position and the teeth properly support the joint.

Fig.2 shows the TMJ in the ideal position, however the teeth do not fit together to support this position of the joint. (Contributing to #'s 1,2 and 3)

Fig.3 shows as the teeth slide together to fit, the joint is displaced. (Contributing to #'s 4 and 5) There are some very effective treatment options for correcting Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD), providing harmony between the joint, teeth and supporting muscles.

The first option is an occlusal equilibration, which involves limited reshaping and polishing of the enamel. This would allow the teeth to fit together to support the joint position and not displace it. This procedure is considered conservative and painless for the patient, requiring no anesthetic.

Another treatment option is to fabricate an occlusal splint (mouth guard). This involves taking certain impressions of the teeth and facial measurements, which are used to fabricate a hard plastic mouthpiece worn over the teeth. The splint protects the teeth and supports the joint in the proper position (Fig.4). During periods of excessive grinding and crunching, the splint is most effective when worn both day and night.

Orthodontics is another treatment option for TMJD. Moving the teeth into the proper position allows for a healthier joint support.

Employing the correct option can prevent further damage to the joint and teeth as well as the cessation of other clinical symptoms such as sensitivity and muscle soreness.

Dr. Sable though existent training can identify with the patient the optimal option for correcting TMJD.

Please call our office for more information and consultation regarding this procedure.
Dentist specializing in General, Dental Implant, Cosmetic, Veneers, TMJ Therapy, Full Mouth Reconstruction dentistary



Alpharetta Services | Roswell Services | Johns Creek Services | Alpharetta Cosmetic Dentist | Roswell Cosmetic Dentist | Johns Creek Cosmetic Dentistry
Site Map | Contact Us | Dr. Rob E Sable
  Designed by - Clarkllc Maintained/Hosted by: Electronic Simplicity, Inc.