How do I find relief for TMJ Disorder? Holistic dentist in Turlock CA discusses advanced treatment options

Many dentists who treat disorders of the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your skull and jaw, are limited in their treatment options. They may rely on oral appliance therapy with splints or mouthguards. While such conventional options are available at Ramsin K. Davoud DDS, they are only prescribed after a thorough evaluation of the cause of your distressing symptoms, and after ruling out alternative treatments. Due to Dr. Davoud’s extensive, advanced training and commitment to investing in the latest technologies, there are numerous alternative treatment options that can be your answer to how to find relief for TMJ disorder in Turlock, CA.

Relief starts with an accurate diagnosis

When combined with Dr. Davoud’s knowledge, the K7 Evaluation System offers a powerful tool to accurately diagnose and assess your condition. The system’s process largely involves:

• Assessing how your jaw and supportive tissues are positioned
• Evaluating imbalance within the jaw
• Tracking the amount of force that each tooth places on the joints and surrounding structures

Additionally, the specific location of any identified imbalances can be pinpointed, which aids in the development of effective treatment plans and devices. As a holistic practice that truly appreciates how no one organ or system exists alone, you’ll likely be asked questions about things like your history of headaches, ear infections, and other symptoms that are typically red flags for TMJ disorders. This helps to rule out previous trauma and narrows down the source of the dysfunction. A thorough evaluation, leveraging the latest dental science and technology has to offer, helps Ramsin K. Davoud know the most functional bite position for your best health – there is no “guess-work” or gray areas.

Effective, sophisticated treatment without surgery

Conventional approaches to TMJ relief focus only on alleviating the symptoms produced by very real imbalances within this intricate oral system (via anti-inflammatory and pain medications). Invasive approaches, such as injections or surgery, are associated with many unwanted side effects. Dr. Davoud’s techniques get to the heart of your TMJ-related problems and do so in a low-risk way that doesn’t produce further discomfort and distress.

Dr. Davoud’s advanced training spans the design and use of neuromuscular, orthopedic, or functional orthodontic appliances. Unlike braces that are used to straighten the teeth, functional orthodontics bring alignment and harmony to the jaw. By repositioning the upper and lower jaws, the imbalances identified by the K7 system are corrected. It’s these imbalances that can further affect a person’s bite, and that are so frequently associated with the TMJ symptoms that many patients may complain about, including:

• Persistent pain in the neck and shoulders
• Backaches and earaches
• Lightheadedness
• Ringing of the ears, hearing-related concerns
• Jaw “locking,” limited mobility when opening and closing the mouth

Dr. Davoud may also prescribe GNM appliances. These are not run-of-the-mill oral appliances. Instead, they are orthopedic devices that are customized to each patient’s unique oral structure. Developed by Dr. Clayton Chan, “GNM” stands for “Gneuromuscular.” GNM appliances combine the “gnathology” with “neuromuscular” science. Gnathology refers to the connection between how your teeth meet (bite) and how your jaw functions, while neuromuscular refers to the interconnected system of nerves and muscles. Customized GNM appliances help to achieve an optimal relationship between the jaw and the skull. This alignment eliminates tension and promotes a healing process, with many patients reporting reduced migraines and neck pain.

You can also experience pain relief with TENS, the same type of therapy that has long been used to treat patients with osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, tendinitis, and other conditions. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation involves safely applying a small, controlled electrical current to the skin’s surface. This low current stimulates specific nerves and muscles, which helps to block pain signals and encourages relaxation of jaw joints and facial muscles. TENS units also promote better circulation and oxygenation and relieves persistent tension.

Pain relief

Treatment plans are unique to each patient. In addition to the advanced options noted above, Dr. Davoud may discuss other dental treatments that can improve how your teeth fit together and improve your bite. You may benefit from exercises, massage, and relaxation techniques, too. Some patients get the most out of their visits with a combination of treatments. Ramsin K. Davoud DDS will not know the best course of action until after an evaluation is completed. Call (209) 666-8867 to schedule your appointment today.

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