Avoid invasive treatments, enjoy fast relief and long-term healing with biological TMJ care.
Avoid invasive treatments, enjoy fast relief and long-term healing with biological TMJ care.
The only biological dental practice in the Stafford, Virginia area, Karande Biological Dentistry – Virginia, is unwavering in our commitment to deeply personal care that honors the connections between the health of the mouth and the entire body. We appreciate the outsized influence of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders on an individual’s overall well-being. So, we naturally approach TMJD and jaw therapy through the lens of one’s “whole-body” health and unique needs.
What are TMJDs?
TMJDs are not any one thing, but rather a collection of disorders that affect the soft and hard tissues around the TMJ. This joint connects the skull to the lower jawbone. It functions to support and facilitate the movement of the jaw. When damaged or otherwise “disordered,” you may experience symptoms that can affect your chewing function and other aspects of your life.
These symptoms include:
- Jaw locking and stiffness
- Chronic headaches
- Frequent earaches
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
- Limited range of motion
- Jaw and facial pain
Other dental practices may focus on relieving these symptoms, overlooking the deeper issues. Dr. Karande and our team approach TMJDs differently. We relieve symptoms for good by actually targeting and resolving the origin or source of those symptoms.
How do you treat TMJDs?
Of course, the specific treatment depends on the nature of each patient’s TMJD and what is at the root of their pain and other distressing symptoms. We may recommend custom appliances and orthotics; bite adjustments; stress management techniques; TENS therapy; laser-assisted therapy; and lifestyle changes. While these methods vary, they generally work to relax the muscles and the pressure that may be placed on tissues around the TMJs. Muscle tension caused by behaviors like chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) or imbalances in how teeth are aligned can stress the joints and interconnected structures and tissues. These forces, tension, stress, and imbalances generally contribute to persistent and often worsening pain and stiffness.
What are the benefits of biological dentistry treatments?
Our approach to understanding and treating TMJDs focuses on restoring proper jaw function while minimizing the use of harmful materials and chemicals in the treatment process. Our integrative approach often helps patients avoid the need for more invasive procedures and aligns with the body’s natural healing capacity. Findings from advanced imaging techniques are the foundation for effective treatment that supports both fast relief and long-term healing. For instance, our 3-D CBCT imaging renders highly precise, 3-dimensional views of the joint and surrounding structures. This helps Dr. Karande identify misalignments, degeneration, and inflammation that may be responsible for your pain and so much more.
Complete Service Overview for TMJ, TMD, & Jaw Therapy
- Neuromuscular Bite Analysis
- Custom TMD Appliances & Orthotics
- TENS Therapy (Jaw muscle relaxation)
- Laser Therapy for TMD
- Craniosacral-Informed TMJ Support
- IOTM-aligned protocols for oral-facial balance
How do lasers treat TMJDs?
Our sophisticated Fotona LightWalker® system targets the soft and hard tissues around the joint. The energy from the laser reduces inflammation, eases muscle tension, and promotes sustained healing. Laser-assisted therapy also helps to improve blood circulation. It is a safe, comfortable, and effective alternative to more invasive, traditional approaches to treat TMJDs and jaw pain.
What happens if I don’t treat my TMJD?
Like many oral conditions, TMJDs do not go away on their own. The frequency and severity of symptoms tend to worsen over time, as you are not identifying and addressing the underlying cause of your pain and other progressive changes. For your utmost health, function, comfort, and well-being, Karande Biological Dentistry—Virginia encourages you to contact us and schedule your consultation. Call (540) 390-1563 today to speak with one of our helpful team members in Stafford, VA.
