Neuromuscular dentistry places the jaw into its optimal position, relieving the symptoms associated with TMD. While traditional dentistry evaluates primarily the teeth, bones, and gums, neuromuscular dentistry works with the hard tissues and the soft tissues, muscles and nerves. Dr. Meyer recognizes the need to solve the root of the misalignment problem or problems by understanding the relationships of the tissues which include the muscles, teeth, temporomandibular joints, and nerves. In short, neuromuscular dentistry and technology add objective data and understanding to previous mechanical models of occlusion.

Dr. Meyer uses computerized instruments to measure the patient's jaw movements:

• Computerized Mandibular Scanning (CMS) or Jaw Motion Analysis (JMA)
• Muscle activity via electromyography (EMG)
• Temporomandibular joint sounds via Electro-Sonography (ESG) or Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA)

This assists Dr. Meyer in identifying joint derangements. Surface EMG's are used to verify pre-, mid- and post-treatment conditions before and after ultra-low frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS).
Combining both computerized mandibular scanning (CMS) or jaw motion analysis (JMA) with ultra-low frequency TENS the dentist is able to locate a "physiological rest" position as a starting reference position to find jaw relationship between the upper to lower jaw along an isotonic path of closure up from physiologic rest position to establish a bite position.
Electromyography can be used to confirm rested/homeostatic muscle activity of the jaw prior to taking a bite recording. Dr. Meyer uses computerized instrumentation to measure the patient's jaw movements via Computerized Mandibular Scanning (CMS) or Jaw Motion Analysis (JMA), muscle activity via electromyography (EMG) and temporomandibular joint sounds via Electro-Sonography (ESG) or Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA) to assist in identifying joint derangements. Surface EMG's are used to verify pre-, mid- and post-treatment conditions before and after ultra-low frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS).
Combining both computerized mandibular scanning (CMS) or jaw motion analysis (JMA) with ultra-low frequency TENS the dentist is able to locate a "physiological rest" position as a starting reference position to find jaw relationship between the upper to lower jaw along an isotonic path of closure up from physiologic rest position to establish a bite position.
Electromyography can be used to confirm rested/homeostatic muscle activity of the jaw prior to taking a bite recording.

TMD Treatment usually is done in phases

Phase 1
Once Dr. Meyer has verified the comfortable position of the lower jaw, he fabricates an orthotic that allows the jaw to close to this ideal position. An orthotic is a temporary plastic appliance upon which he will make adjustments without changing the teeth. This will stabilize the bite and will relieve the symptoms of pain and discomfort. The orthotic is worn for several months during which time the muscles and joints will heal and the patient will experience improvement.

Phase 2: TMD Treatment Options
Once a healthy and comfortable relationship is found, several TMD treatment options may be recommended such as adjusting the bite, orthodontically moving the teeth to the proper relationship, or restoring the teeth to the correct position with crowns, porcelain onlays and/or veneers. The result is a patient with a beautiful, comfortable occlusion and improved overall health and well-being.

Phase 3: Cosmetic Options
A straight, white, beautiful smile is another commonly desired goal, Dr. Meyer can give that to almost everyone. Cosmetic dentistry is dental treatment that improves the beauty and health of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures: from smile whitening to repairing, straitening or replacing teeth. Even the most uneven smile can be improved and restored to beauty and health and it will last a long time providing the jaws are neuromuscularly balanced.

You may be surprised about the symptoms that can actually be related to TMD. Symptoms such as:

• Pain in ears
• Ear pressure or a sense of fullness
• Difficulty clearing ears in high altitude
• Ringing in ears
• Dizziness

Dental related ear pain is usually felt in just one ear and feels very "deep". It may travel down the neck, to the temple, or to the back of the head. This can be aggravated by jaw movements.

Some other signs of ear related TMD: Sore, tender muscles around jaw joints Clicking, popping or grating in jaw joints Jaw shifts right or left when opening wide Most people do not realize that the jaw is so closely related to the ears. Problems with your bite and with the muscles that control the jaw can actually affect your ears. This cycle of TMD ear related problems can be started by clenching or grinding of the teeth, a bad bite caused by missing teeth or poorly aligned teeth, a blow to the joint, arthritis, or emotional stress.

Your "incurable" headache or facial pain could be generated by your TMD. Headaches are our number one pain problem in the United States. Approximately 40% of all "healthy" individuals suffer from chronic headaches. Tension headaches result from muscle strain or contraction.

When muscles contract for a long time, they begin to ache. Headaches from dental stress are a type of tension headache. A tension headache may be on one or both sides of your head. Or, it may surround your head as if a steel band were wrapped around it. The pain feels like a non- throbbing ache.

Signs that a headache may be from dental origin may include:

• Pain behind the eyes
• Sore jaw muscles or tired muscles upon awakening
• Teeth grinding
• Clicking or popping in jaw joints
• Head and/or scalp painful to touch
• "Tired" Chewing muscles
• Missing or misaligned teeth

Referred pain may be felt in cheeks or the jaw joints. Referred pain is when a pain originates in a part of the body that differs from the area where it is felt. Imbalanced muscles from TMD can refer pain to the jaw, head and neck. Once Muscles associated with the TMD become painful, a vicious cycle begins. The pain can make you feel tense and uptight. This worsens muscles spasms.