Neuromuscular TMJ Treatment

While traditional dentistry focuses on the teeth, Neuromuscular dentistry incorporates the three factors that effect occlusion: the teeth, the muscles and the jaw joint position.

Dr. Stante's office is one of very few with the specialized training and equipment to utilize the sophisticated computerized diagnostics and instrumentation to record and interpret joint sounds (sonography), muscle activity (electromyography or EMG), jaw movement (computerized mandibular scanning or CMS) and utilize TENS (transcutaneous neural stimulation) for TMD therapy. Combined with Tomography (specialized jaw joint x-ray) the above information will allow Dr. Stante to find the most relaxed position for the jaw to allow healing of the TMJ complex.

A neuromuscular appliance called an Orthotic is significantly different from a traditionally fabricated dental splint or over the counter purchased night guard. A splint or guard is made from an impression of your teeth taken at your current bite known as your habitual occlusion and only addresses one dimension of your jaw position. A neuromuscular appliance is a bite repositioning appliance that is fabricated only after your muscles have been relaxed using the physical therapy healing principals of TENS and confirmed with EMG measurements to insure your jaw is in a position to promote healing. This appliance adjusts for all six dimensions of your bite.