Our Treatment Process

We treat all facets of temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD. Our office has works with neurologists, ENT's, psychologists, chiropractors, physical therapists, attorneys, and natural health practitioners. Because of the multifaceted experience we have gained in this field, we bring a unique ability to our patients. We offer a complete, all natural, nonsurgical in-office program for treating TMJ problems and related symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, bruxism (clenching and teeth grinding), tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and otalgia(ear pain.)

Integrated TMJ & Sleep Solutions uses state-of-the-art joint vibration analysis to diagnose TMJ dysfunction. Once we have identified the cause and location of the problem, we initiate a comprehensive array of treatment solutions. These may include:

•Ultrasound: helps to break up scar tissue and adhesions, increases blood flow/healing to the applied area. Through the production of penetrating sound waves and heat, ultrasound works on the deeper muscles and tissue that a heat pack cannot reach. The heat causes an increase in blood flow, which prepares the muscles for the next step, trigger-point specific massage.

•Myofascial Release Massage: helps relax the muscles, bring blood flow to the area, and advance healing. During the massage, our licensed/certified staff will seek out and locate trigger points in the muscles that cause pain. The trigger points may refer pain from the muscle to other areas of the body.

•Acupuncture: decreases pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain, called endorphins.  Many acupuncture points are near nerves.  When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull aching sensation in the muscle.  The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system, causing the release of endorphins.  Along with other neurotransmitters, endorphins block the message of pain from being delivered by the brain. 

• Neuromuscular Re-Education: Taught by our skilled movement coach and certified Feldenkrais practitioner Rose Silberman, the Feldenkrais Method of somatic education helps to improve your posture and kinesthetic awareness. This can be a substantial benefit to every aspect of one’s life, but when applied specifically to the treatment of TMJ dysfunction, it helps correct forward head posture, a common issue with temporomandibular joint dis-placement.

• Occlusal Appliance Therapy: An occlusal appliance is the most common tool in treating TMJ dysfunction. It’s a type of mouth piece that is custom fabricated to fit your bite, which can be worn at night or 24 hours a day, if needed. The device’s bite is carefully designed to control forces on the teeth and diminish muscle pain. Occlusal orthotic appliances are also one of the most effective methods for treating TMD. Typically, 70-90% of patients report significant relief from wearing one.