TMJ Therapy/Bite Correction

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD), commonly known as TMJ disorder, is a complicated group of conditions, often characterized by pain and limited mobility in the jaw and surrounding tissue. Few clinicians are trained to properly identify, diagnose and treat TMD.

As the Clinical Director of The Dawson Academy, Dr. Cranham has access to the latest information in regards to the diagnosis and treatment of bite problems and TMJ related issues.

 

What Is TMJ?

TMJ is short for Temporomandibular Joint, the joint that connects the upper and lower jaw and is responsible for the opening and closing of the mouth. TMJ disorder is a catch all term for a wide variety of potential issues affecting the jaw joint, muscles in the face, neck, and surrounding nerves.

 

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

There is no single cause for TMJ dysfunction. Any number of factors or combination of factors may be to blame including:

  • Trauma to the head, neck, or face
  • Trauma to the TMJ joint or arthritis
  • Hormonal changes or imbalances
  • Malocclusion (where the jaws do not line up correctly resulting in bite problems)
  • Stress

 

Common TMJ Symptoms

As with the causes, symptoms of TMJ disorder vary greatly between patients. TMJ symptoms often mask themselves or are similar to those of other medical conditions, making diagnosis extremely difficult. Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

  • Headaches
  • Shoulder, neck, facial pain
  • Clicking or popping when opening or closing jaw
  • Locked jaw or limited mobility in the jaw joint
  • Teeth clenching, teeth grinding, often accompanied by tooth wear
  • Chronic earaches

 

TMJ Treatments

 

Customized TMJ Therapy to Restore Comfortable Function

Improper bite alignment and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems can cause pain as well as deterioration of teeth and supporting structures. Dr. Cranham evaluates smiles for these problems as part of comprehensive treatment planning. He has extensive knowledge of bite problems and TMJ-related issues and provides contemporary therapies to alleviate discomfort and restore optimal function.

Because no two patients are alike, there is no single course of treatment for TMJ disorder. Depending on your condition, Dr. Cranham may prescribe a combination of TMJ treatments for optimal results.

 

What Is Bite Correction?

Occlusal equilibration, better known as bite correction or TMJ correction, is the process of adjusting the alignment of the teeth for optimal fit. The teeth should line up so that they make even contact with one another, creating a low-stress bite.

Over 95% of TMJ dysfunction (TMD) and TMJ pain are caused by an improper occlusion. Bite correction can help to alleviate the symptoms of TMD such as sore jaw, headaches, teeth clenching, and more.

“Before I met Dr. Cranham, I didn’t have anything to smile about, but now, since I’ve met Dr. Cranham, I have a beautiful smile and no more headaches when I get up in the morning. Thanks, Dr. Cranham!”

 

Advanced Bite Correction Technology

In addition to his extensive training and research on TMJ dysfunction and bite correction, Dr. Cranham uses three high-tech systems to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of these complicated conditions. These state-of-the-art tools help Dr. Cranham isolate the source of distress and design effective treatment to eliminate TMJ pain and improve oral function.

 

Sirona Galileos (CBCT)

Sirona Galileos is a digital, 3-D X-ray that allows to look at all surfaces of your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). This is a critical step to assess the health, and reach a firm diagnosis on the source of your pain. We are proud to be one of the few general practices in The Mid-Atlantic Region to utilize this technology. Learn More

 

Computerized Bite Analysis with TekScan

TekScan is a computer-based system that assesses how teeth fit together. A visual exam doesn’t clearly show bite inconsistencies. TekScan gives Dr. Cranham a detailed image that clearly illustrates a patient’s bite problems. This allows him to accurately diagnose and treat improper alignment. Learn More

 

Computerized TMJ Analysis with Bio-JVA

JVA stands for Joint Vibration Analysis. This high-tech, non-invasive system quickly and effectively evaluates the motion of TMJ. With Bio-JVA, Dr. Cranham can determine current function and customize a TMJ therapy plan to restore smooth joint motion and alleviate discomfort. Learn More

 

Don’t Suffer From TMJ Pain – Dr. Cranham Can Help

If you’re suffering from chronic headaches, TMJ pain, tooth wear or other TMJ symptoms, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. John Cranham. Call us at 757-656-4109 or complete the form below to request an appointment.