TMJ & Occlusal Therapy & Correction

Correction Techniques in Peoria Dental Care: Focusing on TMJ and Occlusal Therapy

At Peoria Dental Care, we specialize in the advanced diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and occlusal therapy and correction. In the dental profession this involves the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the temporomandibular joint and the bite (occlusion). These disorders, collectively referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), can cause jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, and problems with jaw movement. Dental professionals, particularly those specializing in TMJ and occlusal therapy, play a significant role in evaluating, diagnosing, and managing these conditions.

Here’s an overview of TMJ and occlusal therapy and correction:

Assessment and Diagnosis: Dental professionals assess patients with symptoms suggestive of TMD, which may include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, limited jaw movement, and headaches. Diagnosis involves a thorough examination of the patient’s dental and medical history, a clinical examination of the jaw and bite, and sometimes the use of diagnostic imaging like X-rays or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.
Identification of Malocclusion: Malocclusion refers to improper alignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is fully seated in the joint and the teeth are closed together. This is called centric relation, commonly referred to as “CR” during the exams at our office. If a patient’s occlusion is unstable when the jaw joint is fully seated in the joint, it can contribute to TMD symptoms. Dental professionals assess the bite to identify any malocclusion issues that may be affecting the patient’s jaw function.
Treatment Planning: Based on the diagnosis, dental professionals develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Treatment options may include:
- Occlusal Adjustments: Dental professionals may make minor adjustments to the surfaces of the teeth to improve the bite’s alignment and reduce strain on the jaw joints and prevent premature wear, fractures, or abfraction lesions on the teeth.
- Orthodontic Treatment: For more complex bite issues, orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners may be recommended to correct malocclusion.
- Oral Appliances: Custom-made oral appliances, such as splints or mouthguards, can be used to reposition the jaw and relieve TMD symptoms by reducing pressure on the TMJ.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy techniques, including exercises and stretches, can help improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension around the TMJ.
- Medications: In some cases, medications like muscle relaxants or pain relievers may be prescribed to manage pain and muscle spasms associated with TMD.
Lifestyle Modifications: Dental professionals often provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding hard or chewy foods, practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching.
Regular Follow-Up: Patients receiving TMJ and occlusal therapy and correction typically require regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress, adjust treatments as needed, and ensure that symptoms are improving.
Surgical Intervention: In severe cases of TMD where conservative treatments are not effective, surgical options such as arthroscopy or open joint surgery may be considered.

TMJ and occlusal therapy and correction aim to relieve pain, improve jaw function, and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life. Peoria Dental Care is dedicated to elevating your dental health and quality of life through expert TMJ and occlusal therapy. Our specialized training in TMJ disorders and occlusal issues equips us to offer treatments that are not only effective but tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients.

Experience relief and regain your smile at Peoria Dental Care. Contact us today to learn how our TMJ and occlusal therapy services can transform your dental health and wellness.