More Smiles Dental Spa | James A. Moreau, Jr., D.D.S.

In the presence of TMJ pain, once we've documented signs and symptoms, we use special technology to help the teeth, jaw and muscles find their most comfortable, relaxed position. Then an orthotic device, a one-piece prosthesis, is temporarily bonded to the natural teeth surfaces, creating a new biting surface for the patient to try for several months. Symptoms should be relieved and then options are considered for the best long-term solution. This patient is wearing an orthotic in this photo. The upper teeth have already been restored by Dr. Moreau after establishing her new, pain-free "bite" with crowns and veneers. The orthotic proved that her new bite was comfortable and helped guide us in restoring the lower teeth as well. Look closely on the lower teeth and you'll be able to detect a line of shade variation between the top half and lower half of the teeth. The upper half is a bonded orthotic which this patient wore for a period of several months.

As a TMJ doctor, we can focus on the neuromuscular aspects that contribute to painful jaw, muscle and teeth pain, including headaches, and apply principles of neuromuscular dentistry to get rid of pain and restore comfort for the patient.