"TMJ" Neuromuscular and Bite Analysis By Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Karen McNeill, DDS in Redmond, Seattle Washington (WA)

NMD objectively evaluates the complex relationship between teeth, temporomandibular joints and the masticatory muscles in order to achieve an occlusion that is based on the optimal relationship between the mandible and the skull — Neuromuscular Occlusion.

In summary, NMD is the science of occlusion ( "bite analysis") encompassing not only the teeth, but the objective evaluation of the status and function of the jaw muscles and joints — before, during and after treatment — to achieve the optimal result. Occlusion and "bite" analysis is the foundation of dentistry. It is of key importance in the success of every major dental procedure to have the bite analyzed and corrected.

NMD is used to treat:

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Syndrome / TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder) / MPD (Myofascial Pain Dysfunction) Optimal bite and jaw position are essential in dental care. Smile Artistry is pleased to offer neuromuscular and bite analysis, the most effective technology for diagnosis and treatment in this highly focused field of dentistry. Neuromuscular dentistry evaluates and treats your overall oral health by considering how your muscles, teeth, bite, and joints all work together. This allows us to focus on the Temporomandibular Joint, or ' TMJ' , which is the joint located near each earlobe where your upper and lower jaws are joined together. For many people, the 'TMJ' Syndrome is a source of constant, nagging pain, resulting in a condition known as TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder. This dysfunction is also be referred to as Myofascial Pain Dysfunction (MPD).

Symptom Self- Quiz Test

Following are a few of the more common symptoms that may possibly be associated with your bite. If you suffer from one or more of the following, you may wish to be evaluated to rule in or rule out malocclusion (bad bite) as a cause.

Headaches
TMJ Pain - Jaw pain, especially when chewing
TMJ Noise -Clicking noises when eating
Jaw is locking (when open or closed).
Limited Jaw Opening
Jaw clenching
Teeth grinding
Facial Pain
Ear Pain
Neck, shoulder or back pain
Dizziness
Difficulty Swallowing
Sensitive teeth, unexplained loose, cracked, worn or chipped teeth

To evaluate if there is a TMJ Syndrome or TMD problem, our practice uses a device that completely relaxes specific facial muscles. Once the muscles are relaxed, we are able to compare your usual bite with the relaxed jaw position. We can then determine whether your bite should be adjusted.

Non Surgical Facelifts

Cosmetic plastic surgeons have been performing facelifts for years. However, plastic surgery can be painful and require a lengthy period of recovery. These days,cosmetic dentistry offers an alternative. As we grow older, the lower portion of the face tends to shrink, lips become thinner, and the skin starts to sag and wrinkle. At Smile Artistry, we are able to reduce these signs of aging dramatically by manipulating your smile. For some patients, this procedure - which can be performed in as few as one or two office visits - improves not only their appearance but also their self-esteem and overall outlook on life.

Smile Artistry Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

Redmond Dentist Dr. Karen McNeill, DDS - Provides exceptional cosmetic dentistry services to the communities of Seattle, Redmond, Bellevue and Kirkland, Washington (WA).