TMD/Myofascial Pain
Evaluation and nonsurgical treatment of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and myofascial pain at Electric City Dentistry focuses on diagnosing the root causes of jaw-joint discomfort and muscle tension, then relieving symptoms through conservative, non-invasive therapies. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore normal jaw function, and prevent long-term complications without the need for surgery.
When you choose Electric City Dentistry for your Evaluation / Nonsurgical Treatment of TMD / Myofascial Pain, you can generally expect the following steps:
Initial Consultation & Medical History: A detailed review of your symptoms, health history, stress factors, and any prior treatments.
Comprehensive Clinical Examination:
Visual assessment of jaw alignment, posture, and facial musculature.
Measurement of mouth opening, detection of joint sounds (clicking/popping), and palpation of muscle trigger points.
Diagnostic Imaging (as Needed): Panoramic X-rays, CBCT scans, or MRI to evaluate joint structures and rule out bony abnormalities.
Bite Analysis & Occlusal Assessment: Examination of how your teeth come together to identify uneven contacts or “high spots” contributing to strain.
Muscle & Joint Function Testing:
Palpation of the masseter, temporalis, and other facial muscles to map pain patterns.
Range-of-motion and strength checks, noting any deviation or limitation in jaw movement.
Patient Education & Customized Treatment Plan: Clear explanation of findings, discussion of your goals, and presentation of a tailored, step-by-step therapy plan.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options:
Custom Occlusal Splint (Night Guard): Reduces muscle overactivity, protects teeth, and stabilizes the jaw during sleep.
Physical Therapy & Jaw Exercises: Guided stretches and strengthening exercises to relax muscles and restore balanced movement.
Pharmacologic Management: Short-term NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or low-dose tricyclic medications to control inflammation and spasm.
Behavioral & Lifestyle Modifications: Stress-reduction techniques, sleep posture tips, and guidance to avoid clenching or hard foods.
Trigger-Point Injections / Botox: Targeted injections to release tight muscle knots for lasting pain relief.
Thermal Therapies: Application of heat or cold packs to soothe inflamed tissues.
Adjunctive Modalities: TENS (electrical nerve stimulation), ultrasound, or low-level laser therapy for enhanced muscle relaxation.
Stress Management & Biofeedback: Counseling or biofeedback training to reduce parafunctional habits and tension.
Advantages:
Follow-Up & Appliance Adjustments: Regular visits to monitor your progress, fine-tune your splint, and adjust exercises or medications as needed.
Home Care & Self-Management: A personalized at-home program of jaw exercises, hot/cold treatments, and posture reminders to support healing.
Long-Term Monitoring & Maintenance: Periodic check-ups to ensure lasting relief, prevent relapse, and address any new or recurring symptoms.
Aftercare:
Every patient’s needs are unique. At Electric City Dentistry, expert team of doctors, dentists, anesthesiologists, and hygienists will work closely with you to design the right combination of therapies for your specific TMD or myofascial pain—helping you enjoy pain-free jaw function and a better quality of life. If you have any questions about our nonsurgical approach, please contact us to schedule your evaluation.