Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is a condition that can cause joint pain, headaches, and muscle pain in the neck and shoulders. It can also make it difficult to chew food and cause limited range of motion in the joint. Most of the time, this is due to strain or improper function of the TMJ.

Achieving a centric relationship of the joint and disk is reached when the upper and lower jaws are resting in a correct and comfortable position that eliminates strain on the muscles and tissues around the joint. Non-invasive treatments like splints can position the lower jaw into the desired position, training the muscles to relax. This reduces tension throughout the jaw, head, and neck. As a result, our splint patients also experience fewer headaches throughout the day or when they wake up each morning.

Bite splints are made of clear acrylic, and can be worn at night or during the day. They are also available in a variety of sizes and models, depending on your TMJ disorder symptoms. Dr. Tangeman will perform a TMJ assessment and occlusal diagnosis on each patient to help determine which type of TMD therapy would be most effective for his or her needs.