TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder) is a catch all category for problems related to the jaw joint.

Possible symptoms include:

• Teeth sensitive to hot or cold.
• Teeth tender to the touch.
• Loose teeth Worn teeth
• The jaw may deviate, or swerve, around bite interferences.
• Headaches from muscle tension Tension and stress
• Clicking or popping when the mouth is opened.

Diagnosis: Bite Study

To aid in the accurate diagnosis of the cause of a jaw related problem a bite study will be done. Impressions of your upper and lower teeth are taken and casts are created in dental stone.

These casts will then be mounted to a special device called an articulator, or artificial jaw. The articulator is adjusted to mimic the way your own jaw works. The result is a working model, not only of your teeth but also of the functioning of your jaw.

The dentist and lab work together to plan an appropriate treatment that will not only bring relief to the immediate problem but also prevent further damage to the joint.

Treatment: Bite Balancing

Bite Balancing is an adjustment to how your teeth fit together. This adjustment is typically performed using dental handpieces with polishing tips on them. The goal is to allow your teeth to fit well together without any undue forces on any of the teeth.

In addition to bite balancing, or as an alternative, your dentist may prescribe the use of a bite altering appliance or splint.