Advanced TMD Therapy with TENS

From disrupting normal bite function to causing severe migraines, ringing in the ears, and jaw soreness, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD can be debilitating. Without proper and prompt treatment, patients can find themselves struggling to perform the most basic of oral functions.

Treating TMD varies from patients to patient. While some can benefit from the daily use of a splint or oral appliance, others require more extensive neuromuscular-orthotic therapy. Within this comprehensive approach, specialized therapy known as TENS treatment helps many patients achieve best results.

What is TENS Therapy?
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, better known as TENS, is an advanced therapy for alleviating and overcoming TMJ disorders. In this neuromuscular therapy, electrical pulses transmitted through electrodes are used to stimulate controlled muscle contractions, alleviating pain points and discomfort caused by TMD.

TENS and Other TMD Therapies 
At our Newton dental practice, TMD dentist Dr. Steven Bader uses TENS therapy as part of a larger, multi-faceted approach to treating TMJ disorders. During TMJ Dysfunction Phase 1 Therapy, ultra-low frequency TENS treatment is used to measure muscle activity, jaw movements, and joint sound, providing Dr. Bader with an in-depth understanding of the cause of joint problems. Over the course of this first phase, TENs is used to for 45 minutes to an hour to help alleviate pain in the head and neck muscles and coax the bite into a more comfortable position.

Once the best neuromuscular position has been determined, an orthotic appliance is created to help physically move the bite into the correct position. When combined with continued TENS therapy, many of our Newton TMD patients are able to enjoy improved muscular relaxation as well as better bite.

During the second phase of TMD therapy, full-time orthotic devices are replaced with removable orthotic appliance that is worn for several months. Depending on the condition of the joint and dentition, additional long-term solutions such as continued TENS therapy, neuromuscular orthodontics, bite reconstruction, and semi-permanent orthotics may be recommended.

Treating TMD in Newton 
At Ted Filandrianos, DMD, FAGD & Associates, our mission is to provide patients with the comprehensive care needed to achieve optimal oral function. With the use of TENS therapy in treating TMD and its resulting symptoms, our team is able to provide individuals with lasting solutions that target the cause of their discomfort. If you are suffering from TMD symptoms and are seeking a comprehensive solution, contact our Newton TMJ dysfunction specialist today.