If you have a toothache, we can perform x-rays, find the source of the pain, and perhaps fix it with a simple filling.
But what if the muscles of your jaw are the source of pain or discomfort? What if your top and bottom teeth aren’t lining up properly? You might be even experiencing constant headaches, neck and shoulder pain or ringing in your ears.
If so, it’s possible you could have Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD.
That’s when a TENS unit can become an amazing way to help relieve the chronic pain that often accompanies TMD and the physical distress it causes.
What does TENS stand for and how does it work?
The full terminology might be a difficult mouthful, but the procedure is simple and non-invasive.
A TENS – or Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation – unit is a small device used in neuromuscular dentistry. I have been specially trained to use this method of helping to realign your jaw and treat TMD in a few simple steps.
First, I find the position where your jaw muscles are most at rest. Next, I use the TENS unit to send out painless frequencies that will relax the jaw muscles. I’ll then measure your joint activity to create an orthotic (a custom made device just for you) that will be placed in your mouth to help your jaw open and close in the best possible way.
You’ll wear the orthotic for about three months to help alleviate your TMD and get your bite back to its ideal position. Or together we can determine if further steps need to be taken to get you back to the life and smile you deserve – without pain!
Please contact our St. Louis, Missouri cosmetic dentistry practice today to learn more.
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