TMJ Therapy

What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?

To understand neuromuscular dentistry, you should first understand occlusion or “bite.”  Your occlusion refers to the way your top and bottom teeth fit together.  If you have misaligned or worn teeth, your jaw may suffer the consequences. An improper bite can lead to headaches and facial pain, common symptoms of TMJ disorder.

As neuromuscular dentists, Dr. Deb and Dr. Rob recognize the need to treat underlying causes of an improper bite.  Your Bethesda dentist will present options for simple, nonsurgical therapies to alleviate facial pain, realign the bite, and restore your jaw’s optimal function.

TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) occurs when the joints that allow for chewing and speaking become misaligned.  If you have TMJ, you may experience jaw clicking or popping, frequent headaches, chronic facial pain, or other symptoms. Dr. Deb and Dr. Rob can alleviate TMJ-related pain with neuromuscular dentistry.

Is Neuromuscular Dentistry Right for Me?

Neuromuscular dentistry may benefit you if you suffer from chronic headaches, neck and back pain, or have worn, cracked teeth.   You should also consider neuromuscular dentistry before undergoing orthodontic, cosmetic, or prosthetic procedures.  Your dentist will discuss all neuromuscular concerns before beginning any treatment that may affect your bite.

The Neuromuscular Process

If your joints are out of line, your jaw posturing muscles may be overworking in an attempt to maintain a comfortable position.   Dr. Deb or Dr. Rob will determine your jaw’s natural resting position with a device called the Myomonitor.  The Myomonitor delivers gentle, electrical stimulation to muscles, overriding the jaw’s uncomfortable positioning.

Once the dentist determines your jaw’s relaxed position, we can take impressions and compare your current bite with the proper, optimal position.  We may recommend a custom mouthguard to hold your jaw in the correct position, eventually reprogramming your facial muscles.  Other treatment options include stress relief therapy or orthodontics.

The BNS-40

The BNS-40 is a portable version of the Myomonitor, available for home use.  If your facial pain is the result of muscle spasms, Dr. Deb or Dr. Rob may provide or prescribe a BNS-40. The home treatment unit has proven highly effective in breaking up muscle spasms and providing relief without the use of medication.

Get the Care You Need Today!

If you’re ready to experience total comfort and achieve optimal oral health and beauty with neuromuscular dentistry, call Bethesda Sedation Dentistry today or schedule an appointment online. We will give your smile new life!  Dr. Deb Klotz and Dr. Rob Schlossberg and our dream team proudly serve residents of Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

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