Neuromuscular Dentistry Questions

What is neuromuscular dentistry?

Neuromuscular dentistry involves working the muscles and nerves which are responsible for the optimal alignment of your occlusion (dental bite). Misalignment of the temporomandibular joint, known as temporomandibular joint disorder (abbreviated TMJ or TMD) involves the joints, joint capsules, bones, muscles and ligaments of the head and neck. The unfortunate truth is that most people do not realize that the painful effects of TMJ include a number of other serious health problems. These may include frequent and severe painful headaches as well as Snoring and Sleep Apnea.

How does a dentist become educated in treating neuromuscular cases?

The most prominent post-graduate school for training and education in working with neuromuscular dentistry patients is the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI). Santa Cruz County, neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Forsberg has achieved fellowship status from LVI. This background has made him highly qualified in recognizing, diagnosing and treating the signs and symptoms of TMJ.

How is neuromuscular dentistry used to diagnose the symptoms of TMJ?

Dr. Forsberg uses the latest technology available to determine the most optimal position for your jaw. X-rays are taken to evaluate the condition and position of the temporomandibular joint. Electromyography measures your jaw muscle function in stressed and relaxed positions and determines if there are structural imbalances in the relationship between your jaw and skull. Sonography records the sounds made by your jaw. This will reveal any abnormalities that are present. Also, computerized equipment is used to record the resting position and path of movement of your jaw.

What symptoms are associated with neuromuscular dental problems?

There are many symptoms that may be caused by your neuromuscular condition. It is important to keep in mind that many of these may be overlooked as symptoms of neuromuscular dysfunction and treated as individual problems.

• Migraine-like tension headaches
• Pain behind the eyes
• Face and neck pain
• Sensitive and sore teeth
• Loose teeth
• Jaw pain
• Limited jaw movement
• Clicking and popping in the jaw joints
• Difficulty swallowing
• Shoulder pain
• Congestion and tinnitus (ringing) in the ears
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Numbness in the limbs and digits

If you have a cluster of these symptoms with no underlying pathology it is highly likely you suffer from TMD / TMJ. Often, these are misdiagnosed by doctors and dentists not trained in neuromuscular dentistry, leading to courses of treatment that are not effective because they do not correct the underlying cause.

Why do neuromuscular symptoms occur?

Any time there is a constant strain on a group of muscles and joints, constant tension results. When this strain and tension relates to the jaw, it also affects the head as well as other areas of the body. Tension causes you to contract muscles. Contracted muscles reduce blood flow and put pressure on nerves, which in turn triggers headaches and can cause numbness in your limbs.

Will my medical insurance help cover the cost of neuromuscular dentistry?

In some situations, a patient's medical insurance may cover part or all of the costs associated with the treatment of TMJ / TMD. Our patient concierge, Dixie, can work with you to obtain a pre-estimate of what your medical and/or dental benefits may cover prior to treatment.

To learn more about neuromuscular dentistry and how we can help you, please contact neuromuscular dentist, Terry W. Forsberg, DDS, at Advanced Smile Designs of Aptos, California today.