TMJ (Temporomandibular joint disorder), or TMD, is a condition that starts in your jaw joint but may have far-reaching complications. Most commonly with TMJ, people suffer jaw pain, headaches, and damage to teeth or restorations. Some may experience related symptoms like neck pain, back pain, ringing in the ears, and more.
If you have talked to your doctor or chiropractor about these symptoms, but haven’t gotten long-lasting relief, TMJ may be your problem. Please call (310) 275-5325 or email Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD for a TMJ evaluation.
Occlusal Splint Appliance Therapy
Dental science is constantly advancing. Dr. Ravon uses the very latest TMD appliance technologies to analyze and correct your symptoms.
Kois Deprogrammer
The Kois Deprogrammer is a removable appliance (similar to a retainer) that enables the evaluation of your bite for TMJ. It works by preventing your teeth from influencing the position of your jaw during the bite motion. This allows your jaw to relax and move in its most natural and comfortable alignment.
Once your jaw has fully relaxed, Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD analyses this new motion and presents treatment options for maintaining your new, more natural, and more comfortable bite.
Night Guard (Occlusal Splint for TMJ)
An occlusal splint is a small plastic appliance that fits over the teeth (upper or lower). With the splint, the dentist can control how the upper and lower teeth meet as well as the positioning of the jaw. A correctly adjusted splint can reduce tension in the temporomandibular joints (the jaw), relax muscles, help to prevent grinding, and relieve pain.
Tooth Reshaping
When teeth do not quite align or fit together properly jaw pain can be the result. In such cases, tooth reshaping (also known as dental contouring) can be a quick, simple, and painless solution.
Tooth reshaping is best used where subtle changes are required and are commonly used to alter the length, shape, or position of your teeth. In certain circumstances, dental contouring can serve as a substitute for orthodontic treatments.
Bite Reshaping For TMJ
A healthy bite (or occlusion) is a working harmony between your jaw (temporomandibular joint – TMJ) and your teeth. The jaw must move correctly and the teeth must align correctly when it does. If either are out of sync—the jaw does not move correctly, or the teeth do not meet correctly—that harmony is disrupted, and pain and discomfort result.
The process of restoring a healthy and correct bite begins with assessing and (if needed) correcting jaw function. This involves the use of orthotics and various other advanced technologies to scientifically determine the anatomically correct function for your particular facial structure.
Once correct jaw motion is established, the position and shaping of the teeth are corrected to create a bite that is effortless, tension-free, and most important, pain-free.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
In certain cases of TMJ / TMD where persistent jaw discomfort exists, full mouth reconstructive dentistry can be what’s called for.
The process begins with assessing and (if needed) correcting jaw structure and function. This involves the use of various advanced technologies and orthotics to scientifically determine anatomically correct jaw function for your particular facial structure.
Once correct jaw motion is established, the position and shape of the teeth are adjusted to support the correct jaw movement. Correct jaw movement in conjunction with correct tooth structure and alignment, assures a comfortable and relaxed movement that is free from pain.
Is TMJ Your Problem?
Most people with TMJ are undiagnosed, and many of them spend years living with symptoms that can be cleared up very quickly. To learn whether TMJ is causing you pain or other symptoms, please contact Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD in Beverly Hills today for an evaluation.
