TMD Testing
Delta, British Columbia
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD or TMJ) can be a difficult diagnosis for many dentists.
However, a trained neuromuscular dentist such as Dr. Gorrell and Dr. Kler can effectively diagnose TMD through a combination of studying your dental history and symptoms, and examining your mouth and jaw.
The TMD test will include measurement of jaw movement, observation of any uneven tooth wear, documentation of how your top and bottom teeth meet, and questions as to your exact pain locations.
If there is any doubt about your diagnosis, additional tests can be taken, such as panoramic X-rays and MRI's that will allow us to visually examine the bones of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
THE DENTIST'S DIAGNOSIS
The neuromuscular dentist will consider all of the information gathered by taking your history and doing a physical examination of your teeth, head and neck. When indicated, they may conduct a series of tests using non-invasive electronic instruments. Data from these tests will indicate to your dentist whether your bite is a major contributing factor to your problem and will help rule in or out your bite as the cause of, or major component of your condition.
If these tests show that your habitual bite is a probable cause of your condition or pain, the neuromuscular dentist then identifies a jaw position while the jaw muscles are in a relaxed state. This jaw position and corresponding new bite is called neuromuscular occlusion.
To schedule an appointment for TMD testing with our experienced staff, contact us today in Delta, BC.
