Neuromuscular Dentistry
Clicking in your jaw and facial pain are common signs that your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is not functioning properly.
Thanks to neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Byron W. Wall can diagnose TMJ disorders and develop an effective custom treatment plan.
Learn how our Albuquerque, NM dental office diagnoses and treats TMJ problems.
About TMJ Disorders Understanding Jaw Joint Dysfunction
Colloquially referred to as TMD, TMJ disorders are often misunderstood by the public. Here are the basics of jaw dysfunction and why it needs to be taken seriously.
The Jaw Joint
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located where the jaw meets the cranium. It is one of the most complicated joints in the body due to the many different types of movement required to bite, chew, speak, and emote. When the structures of the jaw do not function normally, this is known as a TMJ disorder, or TMD.
TMD Classifications
There are different ways to classify TMD, which helps determine approaches to treatment. Myofascial pain refers to muscle pain affecting the jaw. Internal derangement of the joint refers to poor joint alignment or function. Inflammatory joint disease refers to fluid accumulation around the jaw.
TMJ Disorders Are More Common Than You Think
More people suffer from TMJ disorders than you may realize. The NIH notes that the prevalence of jaw joint issues is twice as likely in women than in men. Additionally, rates of TMD are higher among people younger in age.
According to the *NIH
Common Causes of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders are caused by issues that affect the jaw and its surrounding structures. While cases can be complicated, the factors that most often contribute include:
Crooked Teeth (Malocclusion)
Poorly aligned teeth often mean your bite is not optimally positioned. The poorly balanced stress on your teeth can affect the health of the TMJ over time, leading to joint dysfunction.Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Often linked to malocclusion and stress, bruxism is the clenching, gnashing, and grinding of the teeth. This strain on the teeth also affects facial and jaw muscles as well as the joint itself.Facial Trauma and Head Injuries
Falls, accidents, and other kinds of physical trauma to the head or face can affect the alignment and normal function of the jaw joint as well as any surrounding nerves and muscle tissue.Arthritis
Over time, the movement of the mouth will take its toll on the cartilage of the TMJ. This wear and tear can lead to osteoarthritis, which causes swelling, tenderness, and stiffness in a joint.Schedule a Consultation with a Skilled Dentist
People in the Albuquerque do not have to suffer through TMD. Dr. Wall offers some of the latest dental procedures and techniques to address all kinds of problems affecting oral health and wellness.
In practice since 1983, Dr. Wall brings nearly four decades of experience to every patient's case. He is a proud member of the Albuquerque District Dental Society and the New Mexico Dental Association.
To learn more about the latest dental treatments and how we can help you, be sure to contact Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico. You can also reach us by phone by calling:
(505) 883-4488
Excellent Reviews from Patients Throughout Albuquerque, NM
JDR
2020
Great office staff and dental hygienist. I would absolutely recommend Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico and am looking forward to getting the work done and having a nice, professional, healthy smile!! Glad I'm a patient :)
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Romie Lavoie
2020
Dr. Wall is always amazing. Kind, gentle, professional, and awesome dentist. His staff is always smart, kind, and personable.
View On GoogleSigns and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
While numerous parts of the jaw joint contribute to TMD, patients tend to suffer from the same kinds of issues. These are common TMD symptoms seen at our Albuquerque practice.
Clicks, pops, or a grinding sensation in the jaw are some of the most common symptoms of TMD. These symptoms often occur when someone yawns, laughs, or opens their mouth wide.
Pain of the jaw joint is common when dealing with TMJ dysfunction. Yet the soreness can affect other parts of the face. It's not uncommon to hear about TMD-related headaches and earaches.
Since TMJ disorders can be caused by malocclusion and bruxism, toothaches, tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth are all potential warning signs. This often accompanies facial soreness.
Jaw joint dysfunction affects the ear area given its proximity to the TMJ. In addition to earaches as mentioned above, some people also experience a ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and even hearing loss.
TMJ disorders can lead to varying degrees of lockjaw. When the joint cannot function properly, jaw movement may be severely limited. This impacts your speech, diet, and general quality of life.
What Is Neuromuscular Dentistry? Advanced TMJ Treatment Techniques
Our Albuquerque practice takes a unique approach to addressing problems with the temporomandibular joint. Neuromuscular dentistry has helped countless patients.
The Primary Principle
The main principle behind neuromuscular dentistry is that the jaw and facial muscles must be relaxed in order for a person's teeth and joints to function properly. Dentists work to achieve this state in TMD patients.
Correlation Between Tissues
When dealing with TMJ dysfunction, we examine the interaction of different parts of the face and neck. This means a thorough examination of how muscles, nerves, bone, and cartilage interact while a person's mouth moves.
Enhancing Overall Function
By noting symptoms and analyzing these different structures of the head, face, and neck in motion, we can diagnose the cause or causes of a patient's TMD. We can then create a custom orthotic and treatment plan.
Neuromuscular Dental Care Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment for TMJ
Dr. Wall discusses Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico's ability to diagnose headaches, migraines, vertigo, earaches, and neck pain. This unique approach to diagnosis and treatment is an essential part of alleviating TMJ disorders.
Contact Our Dental Practice to Learn More About TMJ Disorders
Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico is one of the leading dental practices in Albuquerque. This is thanks in great part to Dr. Wall and his team's dedication to patients and their care.
Dr. Wall and his entire staff visit the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies at least once a year. This helps the entire team learn the latest information about dentistry and further hone their skills.
If you are looking for a dentist who is attentive to your needs and cares about your situation, be sure to contact Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico. You can also reach us by phone at:
(505) 883-4488
A Dentist You Can Rely On Who Cares About Albuquerque, NM
Roxanne R. Musselman-Gomez
2020
Dr. Wall is the best. He only wants what is best for his patients. Everyone at the office is so supportive and kind. Would recommend him a million times over.
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Margaret Connealy
2019
I get the usual friendly and courteous service. I do not have to wait for anything which I appreciate.
Monica is very efficient and kind and does a thorough job of my cleaning. She manages to be friendly and also efficient which is very good for me.
Top marks for service and ambience.
Neuromuscular Dentistry Candidates Who Should Consider TMJ Treatment?
Neuromuscular dental care is ideal for all sorts of people who suffer from facial and cranial pain. Here are some good indications that it's the right treatment for you.
TMD Symptoms Present
If you suffer from any TMD symptoms, neuromuscular dentistry can be extremely helpful. We will diagnose the cause or causes of your problem and determine the ideal treatment.Long-Term TMJ Dysfunction
If you've found it difficult to chew, speak, laugh, and yawn, it's a good idea to visit a dentist. A TMJ disorder may be one of many health problems affecting your overall well being.Seeking Conservative Care
The neuromuscular approach seeks to avoid surgery and invasive procedures whenever possible. Many patients appreciate this smart approach to dentistry and holistic health.What to Expect during Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatment
Many people are curious about how neuromuscular dentistry works and what the treatment process is like. Here's an overview of what happens during treatment at our Albuquerque practice.
Neuromuscular dental care is ideal for all sorts of people who suffer from facial and cranial pain.
Relieve Your Jaw Pain and Joint Dysfunction
The Benefits of Neuromuscular Dentistry
Neuromuscular dentistry has numerous benefits for dental health and general wellness. There are some of the main advantages to using this approach to dentistry.
By improving the interaction of the jaw muscles with their surrounding structures, TMD symptoms are relieved. That means no clicking, less jaw pain, and restored jaw movement.
Getting TMD under control can help you avoid other dental problems down the road, such as fractured teeth and gum recession from bruxism as well as chronic headaches and neck pain.
By focusing on how the structures of the head and neck are connected and contribute to jaw pain, neuromuscular dentistry reconnects you with a sense of total wellness.
Five-Star Dentistry for the People of Albuquerque, NM
Cat Hubka
2019
The entire staff has kind, considerate, and had an incredibly upbeat, optimistic attitude. I have been dealing with TMD for over two years and not one dentist or doctor has presented any kind of solution for my issue. They couldn't even pinpoint the source of the problem. Within a couple of hours, Dr. Wall and his incredibly empathetic staff narrowed down the cause of my condition. It remains to be seen if his recommendations will relieve my suffering because yet another specialist will come into play and I have complicating factors to treatment, but for the first time in over two years, I have some hope. Tears are welling with relief. I'm finally being taken seriously and not blamed for my suffering. Thank you so much, Dr. Wells and staff. Fingers crossed and prayers for a positive outcome. No one should have to suffer this long to find an answer.
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Myia Hackett
2019
Dr. Wall and staff are amazing! I really hate going to a dentist, BUT they are truly caring and understanding! This is why I continue to travel to New Mexico for my dental care!
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