TMJ/Airway/Sleep Apnea

What This Means for You

Our physiologic TMJ workup is comprised of extra and intra-oral examination of all head and neck muscles, as well as alignment and positioning of teeth and surrounding soft and hard tissue structures (tongue, tonsils, airways). We use CBCT for 3D radiographic study of intracranial structures including sinuses, ear and inner ear structures, airway dimensions, and TMJ joint positioning. Using BioPak/EMGs—similar to how a cardiologist would use EKG to read heart muscle activity—we place electrodes on all major muscles of mastication to establish a baseline of muscle health and workload. Then we use high-frequency TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) to decompress and relax the muscles and record a new comfortable position for a diagnostic/therapeutic orthotic. All adjustments are done to achieve complete symptom resolution. Definitive solutions after orthotic therapy may include comprehensive restorative treatment, orthodontic treatment, surgical intervention, or a combination depending on your specific needs. We also work closely with myofunctional therapists to help achieve permanent results and provide interventional solutions for pediatric patients to prevent invasive procedures as they mature.