Neuromuscular Dentistry

Neuromuscular Dentistry: Advanced TMJ Therapy from Our LVI Dentist

What is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. These three letters are commonly used to describe pain and dysfunction associated with the jaw joints. Today, most dentists use TMD (for temporomandibular joint disorder) to accurately describe the condition.

A Common Problem
Estimates show that TMJ/TMD afflicts up to 40 million Americans. So you’re not alone! The symptoms of TMJ/TMD include:

  • Headaches, including chronic migraines
  • Dizziness
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Unexplained loose teeth
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Locking of the jaw
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Worn teeth
  • Teeth grinding
  • Numbness in the fingers
  • Lower back pain

What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?
This branch of dentistry goes beyond the appearance of a smile. Neuromuscular dentists believe that the entire oral system must work together in harmony for optimal oral health and function. To understand neuromuscular dentistry, it helps to first know a few things about occlusion or "bite."

Occlusion describes the way that your upper and lower teeth fit together. If your teeth do not meet properly, jaw muscles and joints compensate to encourage correct alignment. Overstimulation of muscles, joints, and associated nerves leads to pain and impaired function. The neuromuscular dentist seeks to establish optimal jaw position based on the harmonious relationship between the elements that impact occlusion: teeth, jaws, and joints.

The LVI Approach
Dr. Barney is one of 500 dentists in the world who have completed the postgraduate neuromuscular dentistry program at the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), a renowned teaching institution. At LVI, Dr. Barney studied under world-famous LVI dentists and pioneers in the field of neuromuscular dentistry, such as Dr. Bill Dickerson, Dr. Robert Jankelson, Dr. Jim Gary, and Dr. Clayton Chan. The quality of Dr. Barney’s LVI education is exceptional, and our results are phenomenal. As one patient recently told Dr. Barney, "You have given me my life back!"

TMJ/TMJ Diagnosis & Therapy
Our LVI dentist will conduct a thorough assessment of your head, neck, teeth, and jaw. He uses modern technology, including the Myo-Monitor and Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation Unit (TENS), to find the optimal resting position of the jaw. After finding ideal alignment, Dr. Barney will create oral appliance to maintain your jaw’s best position. Some patients wear their TMJ aligner while sleeping, and others wear it all of the time. We have seen cases in which a person’s jaw muscles “reprogram” to the ideal position, in which case the patient can stop wearing his TMJ aligner.

Easing stressed jaw muscles, nerves, and joints alleviates discomfort and encourages whole-mouth and whole-body harmony. Alternative TMJ treatments include improving bite alignment by building up the surface of back teeth, stress reduction exercises, and lifestyle or habit changes. In some complex cases, surgery may be required.

Schedule Your Visit
Experience the quality care you deserve from dental care professionals dedicated to your smile. Call our Hedgesville dental office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Barney. Our Hedgesville dental office serves residents of Martinsburg, Hagerstown, Winchester, Charlestown, Frederick, and surrounding areas.

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