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The objective with TMJ therapy
is to bring harmony to the teeth and jaw joints
(TMJ) so the muscles are not overworked. Jaw muscles
that are overworked produce soreness to the muscles
very similar to the response of overworked muscles
as a result of a hard workout at the gym. This
instability, if not corrected can result in many
different unfavorable oral conditions.
How are TMJ disorders treated?
Initial treatment of TMJ disorders
can vary depending on the severity. Treatments
may include soft diet, prescribed medication and
the use of a specially designed and custom-made
orthotic appliance fabricated of a hard acrylic.
This appliance is also known as a bite
splint and rests over the top surfaces of the
bottom teeth. When properly designed and customized
to a patient's unique situation, an orthotic appliance
redistributes the forces on the TMJ and muscle
systems while specifically guarding and carefully
guiding certain joint movements.
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