Orthotic Appliance Therapy

Orthotic appliance therapy is a modern treatment for TMJ disorders that uses a special device to correct the alignment of the jaw.

Improve Your Jaw Health With Orthotic Appliance Therapy

Orthotic appliance therapy offers a practical solution for various musculoskeletal issues. These custom-made devices support, align, prevent, or correct deformities and improve the function of movable parts of the body. At Dion Health Services, we offer orthotic appliance therapy for the purpose of treating symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. If you're experiencing persistent TMJ-related symptoms, such as jaw pain, tension headaches, or teeth grinding, this advanced therapy may be the solution you're looking for.

Orthotic Appliance Therapy For TMJ

Orthotic appliance therapy is beneficial for managing the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders. TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement, frequently causing symptoms such as pain, clenching, and difficulty chewing. When treating TMJ symptoms with orthotic appliance therapy, you'll be given a custom-made orthotic device to wear in your mouth. It's typically worn at night but can also be used during the day as advised by your dentist. Over time, your orthotic appliance will correct the alignment of your lower jaw, which will alleviate the unpleasant symptoms you're experiencing. Orthotic appliances are typically made of the following materials:

Hard acrylic
Soft plastic

Benefits Of Orthotic Appliance Therapy

Orthotic appliance therapy offers a range of benefits for those dealing with TMJ-related symptoms, including the following:

Pain Relief

Orthotic appliances can help reduce or eliminate pain in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders caused by TMJ disorders.

Jaw Alignment

These appliances can help in correcting misalignment of the jaw, improving overall jaw function and reducing stress on the TMJ.

Muscle Relaxation

Orthotic appliances help relax the muscles around the jaw, reducing muscle tension and spasms associated with TMJ disorders.

Improved Bite

These devices can improve bite alignment, leading to better chewing efficiency and reducing the risk of further dental issues.

Reduced Teeth Grinding

Orthotic appliances can prevent teeth grinding (bruxism), protecting the teeth from excessive wear and damage.

Reduced Headaches

Many TMJ sufferers experience frequent headaches, and orthotic appliance therapy can reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches.

Enhanced Sleep Quality

Reducing pain and muscle tension can lead to better sleep quality, as discomfort from TMJ disorders often interferes with restful sleep.

Prevention of Joint Damage

By stabilizing the jaw, these appliances can prevent further damage to the temporomandibular joint.

Non-Invasive Treatment

Orthotic appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment option, avoiding the need for surgical intervention.

Customized Fit

These appliances are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Improved Overall Quality of Life

By alleviating the symptoms of TMJ disorders, patients can experience an overall improvement in their quality of life, including enhanced ability to eat, speak, and perform daily activities without discomfort.

Potential for Long-Term Relief

Consistent use of orthotic appliances can provide long-term relief from TMJ symptoms and contribute to sustained joint health.

Adjunct to Other Treatments

Orthotic appliance therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, or stress management techniques, for a comprehensive approach to managing TMJ disorders.

What To Expect During Orthotic Appliance Treatment

Your orthotic appliance therapy at Dion Health Services will likely consist of the following steps:

Comprehensive Examination

Your provider will conduct a thorough examination of your jaw, teeth, and bite. This may include a physical assessment, medical history review, and discussions about symptoms.

Personalized Treatment Plan

A personalized treatment plan will be developed based on your specific condition and needs. This includes selecting the type of orthotic appliance that will be used. Additionally, impressions of your teeth and precise measurements of your jaw will be taken to create a custom-fit orthotic appliance.

Designing Your Device

The impressions and measurements are then sent to our labs, where the orthotic appliance will be custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly.

Fitting

Once the appliance is ready, you will return to the dentist for the initial fitting. Your provider will ensure the appliance fits correctly and comfortably. Necessary adjustments will then be made to ensure optimal fit and function. This may involve minor trimming or reshaping of the appliance.

Wearing Your Appliance

Next, you will be instructed on how to wear and care for the appliance. This includes when to wear it (e.g., during sleep, throughout the day) and how to clean it. You will also need to attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your device as necessary.

The length of your orthotic appliance therapy will depend on the specifics of your treatment plan. On average, though, most patients need to wear their devices for approximately 12 weeks. During the treatment, you should notice gradual improvements in your TMJ-related symptoms.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Orthotic Appliance Therapy?

If you're seeking treatment to alleviate symptoms related to TMJ disorder, you could be a good candidate for orthotic appliance therapy. This treatment can often be an effective choice for individuals experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:

Jaw pain
Headaches
Jaw clicking or popping
Facial pain
Jaw locking
Difficulty chewing
Ear pain
Teeth grinding

Generally, ideal candidates for orthotic appliance therapy should be in good overall health and be free of serious dental problems. It's also essential that candidates are committed to wearing their device as instructed and attending all follow-up appointments.

road by ocean leading to golden gate bridge

Why Choose Dion Health Services for Orthotic Appliance Therapy?

At Dion Health Services, we are a multi-specialty practice known for our cutting-edge technology, renowned providers, and top-tier patient care. When you visit our practice looking to improve your quality of life, one of our dedicated TMJ specialists will take the time to fully understand your unique situation. They'll then work closely with you to formulate an effective, personalized treatment plan that will reduce your symptoms and provide lasting results. We take pride in our understanding of complex cases, and we have access to the world's best labs, allowing us to consistently deliver superb results for our patients.