TMJ - TMD

Terry W. Forsberg, DDS, has been trained in all aspects of neuromuscular dentistry and has achieved the highest level of training in cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry possible at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI). At Advanced Smile Designs of Santa Cruz, California we pride ourselves on our ability to treat general dentistry patients as well as more complicated cases such as those dealing with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or sometimes TMD).

Because TMD is a recognized medical and dental condition, your medical insurance may cover part or all of the costs associated with treatment. Dixie, our patient concierge can work with you to obtain a pre-estimate of what your medical and/or dental benefits may cover prior to treatment. Dental financing is also available to help cover additional costs.

The Temporomandibular Joint

The temporomandibular joint is located on either side of your head, just in front of your ears. It is a complex joint, designed to allow the full motion of your jaw, not just up and down, but forward and back and side to side as well. It is located at an important confluence of bones, muscles, nerves, and other tissues with roles as diverse as speaking, hearing, breathing, balancing, controlling facial expressions, and supporting your head.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

Because of the complexities of the area surrounding the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), TMD can have far-reaching and very surprising consequences. Some common symptoms of TMD include:

• Jaw popping, clicking or crackling
• Sore teeth or jaw
• Chronic, painful headaches, sometimes misdiagnosed as migraines
• Neck, shoulder, and back pain
• Tingling in arms or fingers
• Ringing in the ears
• Snoring or sleep apnea
• Dizzy spells or vertigo

Among many others.

Diagnosing and Treating TMD (often called TMJ)

To be able to properly assess and diagnose TMD, Dr. Forsberg performs a special type of clinical examination that tests different aspects of your occlusion (dental bite). The following evaluations and examinations are essential and include:

• An evaluation of the movements of your jaw to determine if its motions are strained or smooth and if your mouth opens properly.
• An evaluation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) which includes testing for pain and tenderness that generally indicates inflammation in the joint and joint capsule. Uneven motions and abnormal sounds such as clicks, crackling and popping determine which stage of TMJ you are in.
• An examination of the muscles of your neck and head which can all be affected by TMD. This examination will include the palpation (touch) of different areas of your mouth inside and out to test for sensitivity, pain and discomfort. If you are suffering from TMD, the light pressure applied during this examination will cause pain and tenderness which indicates that you are experiencing inflammation, muscle spasms or both.

If comprehensive treatment is proven to be necessary, Dr. Forsberg will perform some computerized tests including: CMS (Computerized Mandibular Scans), ESG (Electrosonography), EMG (Electromyography) and radiographic scans in order to make an accurate final diagnosis.

Dr. Forsberg's exceptional training and skills in treating TMD play a fundamental part in your treatment and recovery. It is important that you only work with a skilled and highly qualified neuromuscular dentist when being treated for this painful condition.

If you have questions about neuromuscular dentistry or you or someone you love is suffering from TMD, please do not hesitate to contact Terry W. Forsberg DDS at Advanced Smile Designs of Santa Cruz County, California today to schedule an examination. Your continued suffering is no longer necessary.