Many individuals who experience chronic headaches and migraines often go many years without properly diagnosing the cause. It is not until a visit to the dentist that most discover that their ailments are due to an improper bite. Either from improper jaw development, unbalanced muscle function, unbalanced dental treatment, or tooth loss/wear, persistent pain is present if not corrected. Now, with the advanced technology in the neuromuscular dentistry field, those who suffer from these undesirable aches can undergo treatment that will help to eliminate problems with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD) and fibromyalgia.

It is important for patients to visit a dentist who is trained and experienced in this type of dental treatment in order to ensure optimal results. Neuromuscular dentistry professionals have the ability to properly diagnose patients who are experiencing head and neck pains, as well as postural issues that stem from an improper bite. At the Columbus, Ohio practice of Mark Levy, D.D.S., he performs various tests to determine how to manipulate the bite; these tests include computerized jaw tracking, electromyography, sonography, and Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation (TENS). A relaxed bite is recorded.

The first step to treat TMJ is the use of anatomical orthotics to align the teeth and correct the bite, allowing the muscle to readjust in a more natural manner. Phase two involves more long term orthotics or orthodontics (braces) to fully improve the jaw’s position and reduce strain on the muscular structure that causes headaches and migraines.

In addition to treating patients with TMJ, Dr. Levy often meets with those who suffer from sleep apnea and/or snoring. Those in the Columbus, Ohio area may browse his website to schedule an appointment.