Have you even heard of neuromuscular dentistry? Well, if you have TMJ—temporomandibular joint—disorder, then you’ll want to meet neuromuscular dentist Dr. Virginia L. Gregory in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Dr. Gregory’s understanding of jaw alignment allows her to help patients who know the pain and discomfort that TMJ disorder can cause.
First of all, let’s establish where and what the temporomandibular joint is. You have two of them, and they are located on either side of your face just in front of your ears. These joints allow you to open and close your mouth to eat, chew, talk, laugh and yawn. As with most of the body’s joints, these are wondrously designed and work beautifully… until they don’t. If the bite is misaligned, then the temporomandibular joints can become irritated and throw the whole system off balance. Then, the consequences can be pain and discomfort. Among the symptoms of TMJ disorder, also known as TMJ dysfunction, are:
- Pain or soreness when you chew or talk
- Swelling along the side of the face
- A popping sound when you open or close your mouth
- Headaches, as well as neck or shoulder pain
- The feeling that your jaw is locked or stuck
- An earache with no signs of infection
- Sensitive teeth
- Changes in your bite
Treating TMJ Disorder
Using the science of neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Gregory can determine the jaw’s best alignment and bring it into a relaxed position. Treatment may require you to wear a custom mouthguard at night to hold your jaw in place and reduce jaw-joint stress. We may also recommend tooth restorations that precisely raise or lower areas of your bite in order to build a naturally comfortable position for your jaw. Other therapies include facial relaxation and changing your eating or chewing habits.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re having any of the symptoms listed above, then call the office of Dr. Gregory and ask about neuromuscular dentistry. We serve patients in Mt. Pleasant, SC, and from Charleston, North Charleston and Summerville.