10 FAQ’s on Neuromuscular Dentistry / TMD

What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?
Neuromuscular Dentistry is a field of Dentistry where the relationship between the jaw joints, muscles, teeth and the skull are of utmost importance. The focal point of Neuromuscular Density is the correct positioning of the temporomandibular joint as dictated by the muscles. When an imbalance occurs in any of the structures such as the TMjoints, muscles or teeth, then symptoms or signs of TMD arise. The main objective of this field, therefore, is to restore the normal operations of the structures commonly affected by TMD.

What is TMD?
Temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction is any problem that arises from the displacement and improper alignment of the joints and its mechanisms. While these joints are relatively small, they can significantly affect the movements of not only the jaws, but the cervical spine as well.

What is TMJ?
TMJ or temporomandibular joint is the term often incorrectly interchanged for TMD, a.k.a. temporomandibular joint disorder. This joint serves as the link between the skull and the lower jaws. Misalignment of this joint can cause problems typically associated with TMD.

What are the symptoms of TMD?
Symptoms of TMD consist of the following:

• Headaches and/or migraines
• Malocclusion or misaligned bite
• Acute/chronic pain of the jaws, face, neck or shoulders pain
• Popping sensation of the jaw
• TMJ clicking
• TMJ locking
• Tinnitus or ringing sensation in the ear
• Teeth sensitivity
• Restricted TMJ movements
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Postural problems
• Cracking/breakage of teeth or restorations
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• Bell's Palsy
• Paresthesia (tingliness) of fingers

How is TMD diagnosed?
TMD is diagnosed following a thorough examination including muscle palation, visualisation and palpation of the TMJs and their movement along with CT scans, sonography, and computerised jaw tracking and electromyography.

What are the causes of TMD?
There are several widely recognised causes of TMD. They include: trauma such as a blow on the head and surrounding areas and whiplash, oral intubation, stress, abusive use of the jaws and onset of arthritis.

What are the types of TMD?
There are three main types of disorders where signs and symptoms of TMD fall under. They are: myofascial pain, internal derangement of the joint, and degenerative joint disease.

What are the treatments typically used for TMD?
Depending on the severity of the condition, TMD treatments can vary such as:

• Manual physical therapy
• Massage therapy
• Changes in appetite
• Behaviour modification
• Exercise
• Occlusal adjustments
• Fabrication of a Neuromuscular Orthotic
• Neuromuscular orthodontics
• Partial or full dental rehabilitation

Are there any first aid treatments to TMD?
There are. For temporary relief in acute pain cases, the patient can apply cold packs on the painful area. Heat should only be applied after at least 48hours after an acute painful episode. Ultra-Low Frequency TENS is very helpful in painful situations.

It is also recommended to temporarily limit the movement of the jaw. After the primary interventions are administered, it is best to seek the help of trained professionals to provide well-calculated treatments.

Where should you go to know if you have TMD?
It is best to have your assessment and diagnosis with a professional with a special interest in this field and who has undergone additional training in this field.