Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Signs of TMJ
- Clenching your jaw muscles for long periods of time
- Jaw muscles feel tired and sore to the touch when you wake up in the morning
- Pain behind the eyes
- Clicking, popping jaw
- Teeth grinding teeth when sleeping
- Painful head or scalp
- Ear aches and/or ringing in ears
- Neck, shoulder or back pain
- Dizziness
If so, Dr. Canady may recommend an Occlusal Analysis.
Occlusal Analysis
Occlusal Analysis is a method of recording your biting/chewing motion on a device called an articulator, which mimics your actual jaw movements.
To gather the proper measurements for this analysis, two techniques are performed at your records appointment.
The relationship between the upper arch of teeth and the jaw joints (TMJ) is recorded.
Bite registration wax is used to record how the upper and lower jaw and teeth meet.
With these measurements, we can accurately mount the diagnostic models onto the articulator to simulate the exact jaw/teeth position, movements and relationships in the mouth. This step is one of the most important tools that Dr. Canady will use to assure proper bite and function of your teeth and jaw.
Treatment Planning
After the data has been gathered and you have shared your dental needs and desires with Dr. Canady, he will spend a significant amount of time diagnosing your best restorative options.
Dr. Canady will then discuss these findings with you during a separate consultation appointment, usually held within three weeks of the records appointment.
