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TMJ and Facial Pain

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Neuromuscular Dentistry  - Treatment That Can Change Your Life

• Do you suffer from chronic pain including headaches or migraines, soreness in your jaw or painful chewing?
• Have you sought medical attention that has temporarily relieved the symptoms, but hasn't solved the underlying problem?
• Are you tired of living with pain every day?
• Have you wished for an answer?

You may have just found it. It's called neuromuscular dentistry, and it is revolutionary treatment that has the power to change your life.

What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?

The simplified explanation is that neuromuscular dentistry is an approach to your dental care that focuses on the relationship of your jaw position, bite and teeth.
A truly healthy and comfortable smile begins with a physiologically sound bite. When your top jaw is aligned with your bottom jaw, your bite is in its optimal position and the muscles will be calm and relaxed.
When the alignment is off, called malocclusion, painful symptoms can result.
Through neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Li will determine the optimal position of your jaw by measuring the relaxed position of your head and neck muscles; then gently and non-surgically reposition the jaw to achieve those exact measurements.
Some Symptoms of Malocclusion

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• Unexplained loose teeth
• Worn, chipped or cracked teeth
• Cracking, chipping or breaking dental restorations
• Headaches or Migraines
• Pain or soreness around the jaw joints
• Pain in teeth that seems to move around
• Neck, shoulder or back pain
• Facial pain
• Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
• Limited movement or locking jaw
• Numbness in your fingers and arms
• Congestion or stuffiness of the ears

How is Malocclusion Diagnosed?

Dr. Li is highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular problems in a patient with malocclusion. First, Dr. Li will conduct a thorough examination of your bite, using the TENS unit, which is a device that electronically massages the muscles of the head and neck. The most comfortable position of the jaw is then confirmed by the K7 Computer Jaw Scanner, which is a computerized diagnostic tool that tracks the position of your jaw both at rest and in motion. The technology also allows Dr. Li to listen to your jaw when in motion. Malocclusion usually causes jaw sounds.
The TENS unit stimulates your jaw with low frequency pulses to help the muscle find its most relaxed state. In combination, these two systems help Dr. Li determine the most optimal position for your jaw.

What Are Options for Treatment?

If you are diagnosed with malocclusion, Dr. Li will recommend a treatment plan that will correct your bite and alleviate pain and discomfort.
Treatment plans include the use of a dental orthotic or dental restoration. The dental orthotic is a removable appliance constructed of invisible, strong plastic. It fits over your teeth, gently repositioning them for an optimal bite.
Dental restorations are placed on some teeth or every tooth to precisely raise or lower areas of your bite and create a naturally comfortable position for your jaw.
Orthodontic treatment (Braces) is also an option to move teeth into a more stable bite.

Get Back to Living Pain Free

Following treatment you'll have a healthy, comfortable attractive smile that you'll be proud to show. But more importantly, you will be able to return to living life as you choose . . . greeting each day with a smile instead of a headache . . . enjoying food without worrying about painful chewing or breaking teeth . . . feeling and looking your absolute best.

This is care that can change your life. Its care you deserve.

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