Occlusal Therapy for TMD

What is Occlusal Therapy for TMD?

Occlusal therapy is a treatment used to help patients who suffer from TMD (temporomandibular disorders). TMD affects the jaw joints, muscles, and teeth alignment, causing pain or discomfort when chewing, talking, or opening the mouth.

Why Do You Need Occlusal Therapy?

You may need occlusal therapy if you experience:

Jaw pain or discomfort
Headaches or neck pain
Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw

These symptoms can be caused by a bad bite, stress, or grinding of the teeth.

How Does Occlusal Therapy Work?

Bite Adjustment: The dentist may reshape your teeth to improve how they fit together when you bite.
Night Guard: A custom-made appliance worn at night helps reduce teeth grinding and relieves pressure on the jaw.
Orthodontics: In some cases, braces or aligners may be needed to correct the alignment of your teeth and jaw.
Physical Therapy: Exercises may be recommended to improve jaw movement and reduce pain.

Does Occlusal Therapy Hurt?

Most occlusal treatments are non-invasive and painless. The goal is to relieve discomfort and improve jaw function.

Why is it Important?

Treating TMD early can prevent worsening pain and protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or poor bite alignment.