TMD: Cervical Dysfunction Problems

TMD: Cervical Dysfunction Problems

When imbalances in occlusal contact (abnormal bite forces) exist between the upper and lower teeth and or when wearing an occlusal appliance,cervical tension and musculoskeletal problems can occur.

The muscles of the head, neck and cervical region can act as contributors to masticatory muscle tension that influence the function of occlusal contacts and posturing of the mandible. Abnormal occlusal bite contacts in the natural dentition (occlusion) and or when using an occlusal appliance that changes the position of one’s jaw relationship can be a contributor to neck muscles strains (examples, SCM, scalenes, occipital region) and shoulder tension pains.

A proper designed GNM Orthotic is key!

Abnormal rubbing or inadvertent tooth force contacts between the posterior teeth can develop over time contributing to the problems mentioned above. When having your dentist evaluate your molars, he/she may not actually find clear radiographic evidence of a root or periapical problem, no cavities or fractures of your teeth to justify a need for root canal (endodontic) treatment. If so, one may consider that perhaps your bite is acting in a manner that is not as happy as it could be. Back teeth should not be in contact when the jaw shifts left or to the right. It is acceptable to have the front teeth contact in these side posturing positions. If your back teeth are in a forceful position when your jaw is laterally positioned, it could be contributing to the symptoms described in this article. Your mysterious toothache or your mysterious neck and shoulder aches may not be from the tooth itself, but rather from how the teeth are abnormally contacting and further contributing to the various other symptoms associated with this problem. There is a logical answer to this problem.

Click here to read more about what Gloria did to resolve her problems after 4 previous failed full mouth rehabs.

Associated problems:

Clenching
Unexplained tooth mobility and gum recession
Unexplained achy teeth (especially molar regions)
Atlas and axis are not able to stay balanced after chiropractic adjustments
Occipital tension and pain behind the neck and base of the skull
Cervical neck tension (Sternocleidomastoid muscle tightness)
Trigger muscle pains to the top of the head (scalp region)
Shoulder tension and pain
Zygomatic/ masseter (facial ) tension and pain
Temporal headaches
Pain at the lower corner of the border of the mandible

These symptoms have been shown to be effectively resolved when proper GNM occlusal principles and therapeutic protocols have been properly implemented by a trained dentist. Your bite/ occlusion and the way it is adjusted may still be the problem).

Adjunctive supportive therapy maybe required to assist in cervical neck postural alignment. If the cervical therapist is having difficulty to maintain C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) alignment the dentist will need to take responsibility in identify the occlusal interferences properly.

Missing Teeth Contribute to TMD Pain: Physiologic Occlusion a Factor for Health

Studies have shown a significant association between myogenous TMD without joint degenerative (masticatory) diseases and cervical muscles. These findings along with studies shows a distinct correlations between occlusion, masticatory dysfunction and cervical muscles activities.

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To Read More:

Other Cervical Considerations:

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References:

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