Neuromuscular TMJ Dentist in Peoria, IL

Neuromuscular bite issues refer to a range of problems affecting the alignment and function of the teeth, jaw, muscles, and nerves of the face and neck. These issues can arise due to various factors, including malocclusion, dental occlusal trauma, missing teeth, and improperly fitted dental appliances.

The symptoms of neuromuscular bite issues are often diverse and include pain, discomfort, and dysfunction of the jaw joint. Some individuals also experience headaches, ear pain, neck pain, or clicking and popping sounds in the jaw.

Treatment for neuromuscular bite issues typically involves the use of a custom-fitted orthotic mouthguard or splint to relieve muscle tension and improve jaw alignment. In some cases, orthodontic treatment or dental restorations may be needed to correct the bite and restore jaw function.

Overall, neuromuscular bite problems can cause a variety of symptoms and impact quality of life. It is advised to consult a skilled neuromuscular dentist to address these issues using a tailored approach that considers the complexity of the jaw joint and surrounding structures.

Some of the neurological disorders associated with TMJ disorder include:

– Parkinson’s disease – This is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and causes muscle rigidity and tremors, which can affect the jaw joint.

– Trigeminal neuralgia – This chronic pain disorder impacts the trigeminal nerve. This important nerve provides sensory information to the face and neck. Trigeminal neuralgia often causes sharp, shooting pain around the jaw joint.

– Multiple sclerosis (MS) – This chronic autoimmune disorder affects the central nervous system. Symptoms of MS include muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling.

– Fibromyalgia – Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system. It can result in muscle pain, stiffness, and tenderness around the jaw joint.

– Ehlers-Danlos syndrome – This genetic disorder impacts connective tissue and can lead to jaw joint hypermobility and instability.

Stress and anxiety can also play a role in TMJ disorder, as they often lead to muscle tension and jaw clenching. Over time, this can cause wear and tear on the teeth and jaw joint. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, you should consult a neuromuscular dentist as soon as possible. These specialists can evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to address the root cause of your symptoms.

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in the face, including the jaw, teeth, and gums. This important nerve also controls the muscles used for chewing and biting. When the temporomandibular joint is misaligned or damaged, it can put pressure on the trigeminal nerve, leading to pain and discomfort that radiates throughout the face and head.

In certain cases, a nerve block injection may be used as a temporary treatment option to manage pain associated with TMJ disorder. This involves injecting a local anesthetic into the area around the trigeminal nerve to block pain signals. While this method provides temporary relief, it is not a permanent fix for the underlying problem and will need to be repeated periodically.

TMJ disorder is a complex condition, and it is often neuromuscular in nature. Several signs can indicate a neuromuscular component to TMJ disorder. If you are experiencing chronic jaw pain, headaches, or earaches, these symptoms are often signs of TMJ disorder. In addition, you may notice clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth, or your jaw may feel stiff or difficult to move. These symptoms are typically indicative of a neuromuscular issue.

A neuromuscular dentist can determine if your TMJ disorder is neuromuscular by performing a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw joint. During this evaluation, the dentist will look for signs of muscle tension, weakness, and imbalance, as well as any misalignment or damage to the jaw joint. Based on the results of this evaluation, the specialist will create a personalized treatment plan to provide you with premium care.

For a comprehensive treatment, visit our clinic conveniently located at 11825 N. State Route 40, Suite 100, Dunlap, IL 61525. We serve patients from Dunlap IL, Bellevue IL, Pottstown IL, West Peoria IL, East Peoria IL and surrounding areas.