One of the most influential factors keeping people from seeking treatment for their TMD is anxiety over invasive treatment plans. The prospect of having to wear a corrective device or undergoing something that inconveniences us is usually the last thing anyone wants if we can help it. What makes our approach to neuromuscular dentistry refreshing is our insistence on starting with noninvasive reversible treatments.
Noninvasive Treatment Options
[link id=’115′ text=’Temporomandibular joint disorder‘ esc_html=’false’] (TMD) can affect people in several ways, and if allowed to progress, symptoms often worsen over time. If diagnosed early, neuromuscular dentists can focus on the noninvasive treatment plans that patients often prefer, such as:
- TENS unit
- Myofunctional therapy
- Mouthguards
- Invisalign
What Is a TENS Unit and How Does It Work?
A TENS unit is a battery-powered device that sends small impulses through electrodes to an affected area to reduce pain. The impulses sent by the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit keep the nervous system from transmitting pain signals from the intended area while also stimulating the body to produce endorphins.
TENS Unit-Myofunctional Therapy Treatment Combination
The benefit of using a TENS unit as a part of patients’ treatment plans is that it allows their muscles to relax. Chronic pain can cause muscle strain, which makes TMD symptoms worse, so interrupting the constant pain signals lets them relax.
Once the TENS unit allows the muscles to relax, the next step is to retrain them. Myofunctional therapy teaches TMD sufferers better muscle habits to prevent the kind of muscle posturing that can cause symptoms.
Early TMD Treatment in Fairfax County, VA
The key to enjoying the best-case scenario for TMD treatment is getting an early diagnosis. As symptoms compound, the need for more invasive treatments increases. To enjoy fewer inconveniences regarding treatment, schedule a consultation with a neuromuscular dentist today. Dr. Marzban uses the most advanced dental technology available to provide each patient with the most comprehensive treatment plan.
Call our offices today at703-323-8200 or visit our [link id=’50001′ text=’website‘ esc_html=’false’] for more information about TMD.
