Dentistry

Dentistry Jeannette

Just like cosmetic dentistry is a specialized area of dentistry, neuromuscular dentistry is also a specialized area that focuses on placing the jaw in its optimal position to alleviate the symptoms associated with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). Sometimes, you will hear the acronym TMJ used to refer to this painful disorder, but in actuality, TMJ refers to the Temporomandibular Joint, itself, not the disorder. While traditional dentistry evaluates the teeth, bones, and gums, neuromuscular dentistry focuses on the hard and soft tissues, nerves, and muscles. When the jaw is misaligned, the result is a combination of symptoms that are chronic and never just go away on their own. The goal of a neuromuscular dentist is to put your jaw back into alignment. Dr. Maria Cavalier in Greensburg, Pennsylvania has had extensive training at the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) in neuromuscular dentistry and treatment of TMD.

TMD Symptoms
When the jaw is misaligned, both the hard and soft tissues are affected and many painful problems can result:

  • Headaches
  • Jaw pain and stiffness
  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Ear pain
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Clicking/popping sounds of the jaw
  • Locking of the jaw
  • Bone loss
  • Shoulder pain and stiffness

Dr. Cavalier can realign your bite and resolve your TMD/TMJ symptoms using state-of-the-art technology to determine if your symptoms are caused by malocclusion and, if so, to determine your optimal jaw position.

TMD Treatment
Following a thorough evaluation, a TMD treatment plan will be discussed and the following treatment options may be available to you:

  • Jaw rest to give it time to heal. You cannot chew gum, bite your nails, chew on hard objects like pencils or clench your teeth. You will follow a soft diet and avoid crunchy foods.
  • Occlusal splints (mouthpieces) are designed to protect the teeth from further wear and to reduce the severity of grinding at night and allow the muscles to rest. Daytime wear may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Medication for pain, to relax muscles and to reduce inflammation may be prescribed.
  • Moist heat is helps relieve the jaw's sore muscles. Moist heat promotes blood flow into the muscle which aids in healing and relaxation of the muscle as well.
  • Exercises and physical therapy can help relax the muscles and increase joint flexibility.
  • Occlusal adjustment (to fix bite problems) may be necessary and can be achieved through a minor reshaping of the teeth.
  • Stress management is helpful because TMD may be a sign that you are under stress and not even aware of it.

If you live in Greensburg, Murrysville, Pittsburgh, North Huntingdon, Jeannette, Latrobe, or Ligonier, Pennsylvania and feel you may have TMD, please contact Dr. Maria Cavalier’s office today to schedule your initial appointment.

Greensburg Cosmetic Dentist

724.219.0812

438 Pellis Road, Suite 100
Greensburg, PA 15601

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