We begin with TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), a kind of electrical message. TENS relaxes the muscles of the head and neck, increases blood circulation within the muscles and stimulates the release of endorphins, a natural painkiller.nnThese sophisticated instruments have years of successful use in many different medical specialties. In neuromuscular dentistry, we use them to evaluate jaw dysfunction, which can contribute to symptoms in your entire body, although the most common symptom is headaches. We combine these measurements with specialized x-rays to determine the best treatment for your TMJ. Sometimes, regular TENS massage and lifestyle changes are adequate treatments. Other times, an orthopedic mouthpiece may be recommended. Sometimes orthodontics is the treatment of choice to place the teeth in the correct position for a neuromuscular bite and to improve jaw function. Rarely, surgery may be required to treat TMJ.nnTMJ is a chronic condition that may take years to develop and likely worsens with age. However, our scientific diagnosis and treatments may allow us to help you get relief, even if other doctors have not been able to help.nnOnce we have relaxed your muscles, we can determine your jaw’s ideal rest position. Computerized jaw tracking is used to identify any irregularities in your jaw’s movement. EMG (Electromyography) is used to measure the electrical activity in the muscles, so we know when your muscles are at maximum rest. ESG (Electrosonography) is used to evaluate joint noises so we know whether there are any destructive or degenerative processes at work in your TMJ.nnWe will then fabricate a removable orthotic that will position your jaw into a comfortable position. You will return to our office for a follow-up to ensure symptoms are relieving and that things are improving. For some people, symptoms will be relieved quickly and continue to get better over time. For others, the process may take more time. A removable orthotic is phase one of treatment. For some people phase, one is all a patient will need. For others moving into phase two which could include crowns, bridges, implants, or orthodontic treatment is needed to maintain being pain-free. This would be decided after phase one has been started.