|
Step 2 - Relaxation of your muscles to discover your ideal bite
This allows your muscles to 'forget' how they move your jaw into your habitual, non-ideal bite. Relaxation of your muscles is achieved with 'TENS'. TENS is a small machine that uses electrical impulses to stimulate nerves, which in turn, relax the muscles. During TENS, it appears as though the muscles in your face, head and neck, are twitching.
TENS treatment is painless, and usually lasts 45 - 90 minutes. Most people find the treatment extremely relaxing, and many fall asleep.
Step 3 - Recording your ideal bite
After TENS, and with the assistance of K7, impressions are taken of your teeth in their ideal bite. From these impressions, our laboratory is able to make a much more advanced splint, known as an orthotic.
Step 4 - Achieving your ideal bite with an orthotic
An orthotic is similar to a splint, and is worn both during the day, and the night. It is usually fitted to the lower teeth, and can either be fixed in place or made removable. It is shaped to look like your natural teeth. When in place, it achieves your ideal bite.
An orthotic will halt any further wear of your teeth. It will prevent progression of other bite-related concerns, such as abfraction and cracks. Over time, it can also minimize TMD symptoms. Some people find that their symptoms resolve instantly. Others find it may take weeks, or months, before their symptoms resolve. Every person responds differently to orthotic therapy, however the vast majority will experience an improvement in their TMD symptoms.
Once the orthotic has been fitted, you will require several adjustment appointments. At each of these appointments, TENS is again used - to relax your muscles, before your orthotic is adjusted.
« Back to Diagnosis and Treatments |
