Before treatment, this patient struggled with frequent headaches, jaw clicking and popping, and persistent head, neck, and TMJ pain. Everyday activities—such as chewing, concentrating, and even resting—were undermined by discomfort. At Garrett Goodling Dentistry, our Wilmington TMJ expert Dr. Michael Rosen discovered the common thread: a deep bite that tucked the lower jaw into a strained position, overworking the muscles and creating trigger points that fueled her symptoms.
A Precise, Technology-Guided Diagnosis
To understand the true source of her pain, we used TMJ muscle tracking technology, 3D scanning and printing, and a TENS unit (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). This combination allowed us to relax overused muscles, record objective data, and identify a balanced, comfortable jaw position. With those measurements in hand, we planned a conservative, stepwise approach to prioritize stability and relieve TMJ symptoms.
Establishing a Healthier Jaw Position
We guided the jaw into its newly established position with a neuromuscular orthotic—a removable, plastic appliance that temporarily simulates the proper lower-tooth position. As the patient wore the orthotic, muscles relaxed and joints were supported in a more harmonious alignment. In parallel, we addressed bite relationships as part of a comprehensive plan, including TMJ therapy, bite correction, and a blueprint for full-mouth reconstruction when she was ready to make the changes permanent.
Results That Restored Daily Life
Progress built steadily. Headaches that once arrived like clockwork faded, jaw clicking and popping subsided, and neck and shoulder discomfort improved dramatically. Most importantly, the constant TMJ pain that shaped her days is now in the past. In her words, “My symptom relief has been amazing. It took some time, but my jaw feels so much better than it did before. I wish I would have done this treatment sooner after having pain for so many years.” The outcome reflects what’s possible when careful diagnostics meet targeted therapy—less pain, more ease, and a return to normal routines.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
Because the orthotic proved the comfort and function of her new jaw position, the patient now has the option to make that position permanent with crown and bridge treatment. This final phase will be designed to guide her jaw into the exact position validated by the orthotic, allowing her to maintain comfort without a removable appliance. For a patient who arrived with daily pain and uncertainty, this path offers lasting stability—and a future no longer defined by TMJ symptoms.
Contact Us Today
Are you suffering from symptoms of TMJ dysfunction? Contact our office today by calling us at (302) 994-0979.
