TMJ Treatment
Neuromuscular TMJ Treatment – Palo Alto, San Mateo, Menlo Park, Redwood City
Neuromuscular dentistry is performed to realign the bite and relieve the symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, such as lockjaw or “jaw popping." Dr. Jean Barthman and her team provide a variety of treatment options designed to alleviate or eliminate the symptoms of TMJ disorder for patients in San Mateo, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Redwood City, the Peninsula, and the Bay Area.
What Is TMJ?
A “TMJ disorder” is a collection of symptoms that occurs when the jaw is improperly aligned. The most common symptoms are an inability to open the mouth comfortably, headaches, a bite that feels misaligned or uncomfortable, and popping, clicking, or grinding sounds when the jaws are opened widely. Additional symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, neck, shoulder, and eye discomfort, and ringing of the ears (tinnitus).
TMJ can grow progressively worse if it is not diagnosed, meaning a minor problem could become a major source of pain if left untreated. In addition, the earlier treatment for TMJ is started, the better the chances of a successful treatment. If you are experiencing the symptoms of a TMJ disorder, contact Jean Barthman, D.D.S., immediately to obtain much-needed relief.
TMJ Treatment with Neuromuscular Dentistry
Dr. Barthman provides outstanding TMJ treatment with neuromuscular dentistry for patients in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, San Mateo, and surrounding communities. Her Las Vegas Institute (LVI) training sets her apart from other dentists in the Redwood City area since it enhances her understanding of the TMJ structure and of the most effective treatment options. Neuromuscular dentistry can be used to treat TMJ disorder by retraining the facial muscles, tissues, and nerves and bringing the jaw into alignment in its relaxed state. When the jaw is in proper position at rest, it does not have to work harder to perform basic functions (such as chewing or speaking), which prevents strain and injury to the surrounding muscles.
TMJ Treatment Options
If you need treatment for a TMJ disorder and you live in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, San Mateo, or another area near our practice, you can receive exceptional care by Dr. Barthman and her team. We provide the following TMJ treatment options:
TENSing
TENSing (“Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation”) addresses the muscle tension at the root of a TMJ disorder. By gently stimulating the muscles with an ultra-low-level electrical pulse, TENSing helps the muscles in the neck, back, and face lightly contract and then relax.
Orthotic Splints
Orthotic splints are small, plastic appliances worn over the top of the lower teeth. They keep the top teeth from touching the bottom teeth, preventing the trauma caused by clenching. The splint is usually worn temporarily and is used in conjunction with other treatments to realign the jaw. For finalization of the bite, we can provide restorative dental treatments.
Contact Our Office
Please contact Jean Barthman, D.D.S., immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder. We welcome patients from San Mateo, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and surrounding areas.