Neuromuscular Exams

At Center for Advanced Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care that addresses the intricate relationship between your teeth, jaw, and the associated muscles and nerves. Our neuromuscular exams are a critical part of this approach, allowing us to diagnose and treat conditions related to the alignment and function of your jaw and bite, ultimately enhancing your overall oral health and well-being.

What is a Neuromuscular Exam?

A neuromuscular exam evaluates the harmonious function of the muscles, nerves, and joints of the jaw. By understanding how these components interact, we can identify issues that may contribute to pain, discomfort, and other dental problems. This exam is essential for diagnosing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bite alignment issues, and other neuromuscular-related dental conditions.

Why Neuromuscular Exams are Important

Neuromuscular exams provide valuable insights into how your jaw and bite are functioning, which is crucial for:

  • Diagnosing TMJ Disorders: Identifying the root cause of jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.

  • Improving Bite Alignment: Ensuring that your teeth meet correctly, which can prevent wear and tear, reduce tooth sensitivity, and alleviate pain.

  • Enhancing Overall Oral Health: Addressing underlying neuromuscular issues can improve your oral health, function, and comfort.

  • Preventing Future Problems: Early detection and treatment of neuromuscular issues can prevent more serious dental problems down the road.

Our Comprehensive Neuromuscular Exam Process

Our neuromuscular exams are thorough and tailored to each patient's needs. Here’s what you can expect during your exam:

  1. Detailed Medical and Dental History

    • We begin by reviewing your medical and dental history, including any symptoms you’ve experienced, such as jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing. Understanding your history helps us tailor the exam to your specific needs.

  2. Physical Examination

    • Our team will conduct a comprehensive physical examination of your jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. This helps us identify any muscle tenderness, joint noises, or deviations in jaw movement that may indicate neuromuscular issues.

  3. Bite Analysis

    • We evaluate your bite alignment to determine if your teeth are meeting properly when you close your mouth. Misaligned bites can cause a range of problems, from tooth wear to TMJ disorders.

  4. Electromyography (EMG)

    • EMG measures the electrical activity of the muscles at rest and during jaw movement. This non-invasive test helps us assess the muscle function and identify any abnormalities.

  5. Jaw Tracking

    • Using advanced jaw tracking technology, we monitor the movement of your jaw in real-time. This allows us to detect any irregularities in your jaw motion and pinpoint the areas of dysfunction.

  6. Sonography

    • Sonography captures the sounds made by the TMJ during movement, helping us identify any clicking, popping, or grinding noises that may indicate joint issues.

  7. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

    • TENS therapy uses low-frequency electrical impulses to relax the jaw muscles. This helps us determine the ideal jaw position and can provide immediate pain relief.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Based on the results of your neuromuscular exam, we develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our treatment options may include:

  • Orthotic Appliances: Custom-made devices that help realign the jaw and improve bite function.

  • Physical Therapy: Exercises and therapies designed to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve function.

  • Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress and muscle tension, which can exacerbate TMJ disorders.

  • Orthodontics: Braces or aligners to correct bite alignment issues.

  • Restorative Dental Work: Procedures to restore the proper function and appearance of your teeth.

Why Choose Center for Advanced Dentistry for Neuromuscular Exams?

  • Expertise and Experience: Our dental team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular dental issues.

  • State-of-the-Art Technology: We utilize the latest diagnostic tools and techniques to ensure accurate assessments and effective treatments.

  • Comprehensive Care: Our holistic approach ensures that we address the underlying causes of your symptoms, promoting long-term oral health and well-being.

  • Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and care, providing personalized treatment plans that meet your unique needs.

Take the First Step Towards Better Oral Health

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorders or other neuromuscular issues, a comprehensive neuromuscular exam can help.

Contact Us Today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable smile. Let our expert team provide you with the care and solutions you need for optimal oral health.