Philosophy to TMD treatment & approach
Dr. Bis Philosophy to TMD treatment & approach to treating each of her patients is one of attaining an optimal result. Her systematic, and methodical manner, as well as her attention to detail results in her success when it comes to treating TMJ and chronic pain patients. Dr. Bis recognizes that proper jaw posture as it relates to the cranium is a must in resolution of muscle and joint pain, and that the teeth play a critical role in defining surrounding musculature, ligaments, and joints. A healthy balance and position of these structures is crucial for optimal function, stability and comfort.
A Comprehensive Understanding
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) and chronic facial pain is the most challenging aspect of Dentistry today. Most dentists are not informed in this area of dentistry and so do not have a thorough understanding of the issues that people with this disorder suffer from. The evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction all rely on the knowledge and training in how the musculoskeletal, postural, emotional, biochemical, and functional issues play a part of the TMD patient complaints. Many of the symptoms that accompany these problems continue to challenge the dental profession, and most are not aware that the numerous signs and symptoms which are present with TMD go beyond the simple solutions we’ve been taught to rely on. Our desire is to provide timely and effective treatment that addresses the source of the problem rather than Band-Aid remedies that do more harm long-term.
Initial Diagnosis
The majority of TMD problems are related to unhappy masticatory muscles. These tight and over-active muscles produce acute and chronic pain problems which can contribute to tender muscles, jaw pain, headaches, migraines, jaw clicking and popping, and over time lead to depression, anxiousness, difficulty sleeping, and many other chronic issues. One of the most underestimated aspects of dentistry today is an ability to find the proper physiologic bite of our patients. Technological advances have made it possible to measure and record physiologic responses and posture of the jaw, head and cervical/neck. This allows us to make better decisions to diagnose and treat TMD before irreversible changes occur.
In this blog Philosophy to TMD treatment & approach in order to effectively diagnose and treat TMD, Dr. Bis uses scientific measuring technology to help her accurately measure and capture her patient’s specific jaw position and how it relates to the masticatory muscle system in order to establish the ideal physiologic position before any treatment is rendered.
Since few clinicians actually measure their patients muscle activity and/or physiologic jaw position, decisions are made and treatment is rendered without consideration to the significant changes to physiology and muscle dynamics of their patients. As a result, many of our patients come to us after suffering in pain for many years, often as a result of past dental work that did not take their jaw position into consideration.
The key to any successful treatment is the level and attention to details. Consistent predictable results is what allows patients to experience the long over-due relief from their agonizing pain. Being in a rush to find a quick solution will not lead to long term predictable results. A thorough diagnosis takes the time to methodically address each area of the diagnostic work up in order to gain optimal results in the shortest recovery time possible.
About Dr. Agatha Bis:
Oakville Dentist, Dr. Agatha Bis, DDS received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from University of Western Ontario in 1996. With over 25 years of clinical experience and thousands of hours in post-graduate training, her unique focus and expertise in treating TMD and restorative dentistry, along with digital technology has led to helping numerous patients resolve chronic and debilitating dental challenges.