Within the complex head and neck system of teeth, muscles and joints, even the most minute misalignment can set off a cascade of events that trigger pain and other adverse effects in the human body. The etiology of these symptoms is not easily recognized and in fact varies widely from patient to patient.

Temporomandibular Disorder is a malady of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its surrounding muscle groups. Pain associated with this disorder can affect the head, face, neck, ears, eyes, back, and even fingers. It often masquerades as other conditions like migraines, sinus headaches, muscle stiffness, eye or ear pain, and other problems. The cause of TMD may vary but there is an important commonality among sufferers: AN INCORRECT BITE PATTERN FORCING THE SURROUNDING MUSCLES AND JOINTS TO COMPENSATE FOR THE MISALGNMENT.

Manhattan Orthodontist Dr. Stoess-Allen uses the guidelines of Physiological Positioning when treating all orthodontic cases. This treatment expands the domain of traditional orthodontic care by treating the complex interrelationships of teeth, muscles and joints as an intergraded whole. By aligning the teeth symmetrically and providing harmony between the teeth and the bilateral temporomandibular joints, which connect the lower jaw to the skull, patients develop a stabilized bite. As a result, they will have improved dental and muscular function and can lead pain free lives. Dr. Stoess-Allen believes that patients deserve a higher standard of treatment and uses the advanced diagnostic measures of bioelectronics instrumentation, orthotic (bite plate) manipulation, and cone beam CT scanning to finish the patients' occlusion in its most precise physiological position.

As the teeth are gradually brought into their new positions, the orthotic is adjusted accordingly. Eventually the use of the orthotic will not be necessary as the total alignment is achieved. The typical treatment time is usually shorter than traditional comprehensive orthodontic treatment and the appliances used often provide immediate relief from the initial painful symptoms associated with TMD.

Symptoms:
(If you are suffering from any of these symptoms we might be able to help you.)
Clicking and popping of the joint grinding sounds
Headaches/Migraines Dizziness
Ringing in the ear
Excessive wear on the teeth
Severe pain all over the head
Joint pain, facial pain, muscle pain or tenderness in the face, ear, neck, or shoulders
Jaw locking in an open or closed position
Difficulty opening or closing mouth
Pressure blockage in ears
Hearing impairment that comes and goes
Pain in the sinus area or behind the eyes
Unexplained loose teeth
Worn chipped or cracked teeth
Cracking, chipping, or breaking dental restorations
Pain or soreness around the Jaw, Neck, Shoulder, or Back

Let us know if you are experiencing these symptoms:
Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
Does stress make your clenching and pain worse?
Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat or yawn?
Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaw?
Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other joints?
Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
Are your teeth senstive, loose, broken or worn?
Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
Does your bite feel off?