Diagnosing and Treating TMD/TMJ

by Michael Vold, DDS, JD

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is a physical condition caused by the deterioration of your jaw joints. It is also known as TMJ, which is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint.

There are two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of the face. The temporomandibular name comes from the two bones that create the joint, the temporal bone and the mandible. The temporal bone is part of your skull, and the mandible is your lower jaw bone. A small disc made of cartilage is positioned between the bones to form the joint.

TMD is often painful and can result in congested ears, ringing in the ears, facial swelling, headaches and breathing problems; as well as back, neck and shoulder pain. TMD can also make it difficult to chew, cause odd clicking or popping sounds when the jaw joint is opened or closed, and result in hearing loss. The discomfort can last for short or long periods of time. Both the jaw bone and surrounding areas are usually affected by the disorder, such as muscles, tissues, blood vessels and tendons.

TMD is frequently caused by the misalignment of teeth. This misalignment can occur due to stress, auto accidents, arthritis and many other ailments that affect body joints in general. If the disorder isn’t corrected, the jaw bone will continue to erode and your teeth will begin to loosen. TMD can also lead to tooth loss.

Many times TMD can be successfully treated by a dentist. First, a thorough examination is conducted to determine the reason for the problems you are having. Any areas of pain will be looked at, and your bite will be studied. Muscle and jaw functionality will be evaluated, along with any difficulties you are having opening and closing your mouth. X-rays may be necessary to get a full and detailed view of your jaw joints and teeth.

Sometimes symptoms similar to TMD are caused by gum disease, tooth decay and other health issues. A knowledgeable dentist will be able to diagnose the real source of your pain and discomfort.

In cases involving TMD, various methods can be used to manage the disorder, including orthodontics, bite adjustments, crowns, implant teeth, and bite appliances. Other remedies include heat and cold packs, mild medication to reduce pain and relax the muscles, physical therapy and changes in behavior.

A conservative approach to TMD can be taken, working with patients to correct any habits that may be contributing to the disorder and apply a gradient scale of remedies to resolve the situation, including dietary changes such as eating softer foods. Sometimes several different types of treatment are conducted at the same time. It doesn’t necessarily require oral dental surgery to correct it.

It has been reported that 25% of the population has some type of jaw malfunction. If you are experiencing any type of jaw problem, seek advice from a dentist with TMD training and experience. There is software called Bite FX which demonstrates and explains about TMD. Proper evaluation and treatment can restore your health and prevent future tooth loss.

Northbrook Court Dental Provides Treatment Program for TMD

Northbrook, Illinois - Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) announced a treatment program for temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), also known as TMJ. The painful physical condition is caused by deteriorating jaw joints and can lead to tooth loss if not corrected.

“We have successfully treated many cases of TMD with a conservative approach that focuses on identifying and eliminating the source of the problem. and we have software called Bite FX that helps to explain and demonstrate the problem,” says Dr. Michael Vold, D.D.S., Northbrook dentist and founder of Northbrook Court Dental Associates. Dr. Vold has undergone extensive TMD training and education, and is highly skilled in diagnosing and treating TMD cases.

TMD is typically caused by the misalignment of teeth, which can result from various health issues such as arthritis, as well as auto accidents and stress-related tooth grinding. The condition affects the jaw bone as well as nearby muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues.

Symptoms of TMD/TMJ include headaches, ringing in the ears, breathing difficulties and facial swelling, as well as neck, shoulder and head pain.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates’ TMD treatment program begins with a thorough examination of the patient’s jaw bone and any areas where the patient is experiencing pain or discomfort. Jaw movement is closely analyzed to determine the source of the problem.

Methods used by the clinic to correct TMD include bit adjustments, orthodontics, bite appliances and crowns. Patients are also given instructions for at-home care that can involve changes in diet and the use of hot and cold packs to reduce swelling.

“Our staff works closely with patients suffering from TMD to ensure the underlying cause of the condition is thoroughly addressed,” says Dr. Vold. For more information on Northbrook Court Dental Associates’ TMD/TMJ treatment program, visit the Northbrook dental clinic’s website or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

Preventing Tooth Decay With Sealants

by Michael Vold, DDS, JD

Despite the many proactive measures that can be taken to prevent tooth decay, a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows cavities in children between the ages of two and five increasing 15.2% from 1988-1994 to 1999-2002. It has also been reported that approximately 20% of U.S. children and teens have untreated cavities.

According to a recent article in the New York Times, not only is tooth decay in young children on the rise, more preschoolers are showing up at dental offices with cavities needing extensive dental procedures, including dental surgery requiring anesthesia. Some dental offices have reported children as young as 2 with six to ten cavities at a time.

Maintaining good oral health at every stage of life is vital. Taking care of your teeth not only prevents future tooth loss, it reduces the risk of many other diseases, such as periodontitis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even osteoporosis or to have to implant teeth. Learning more about cosmetic dentistry, you can know the different solutions available to fix dental problems.

Healthy eating is one way to minimize the possibility of cavities. Avoid foods that contain sugar as much as possible. Regular brushing and flossing is also important when it comes to oral health and whitening of teeth. Another effective way children and teens can protect their teeth from decay is with dental sealants.

Sealants have had American Dental Association (ADA) approval for over 35 years. Made of tooth-colored acrylic, they fill a tooth’s pits and grooves with a protective covering. Dental sealants prevent tooth decay by shielding teeth from the mouth bacteria, acids and sugars that come from food particles.

Dental sealants are generally applied to permanent molars, which start growing when a child is around six years of age. Permanent molars continue to push through the gums until a child is 12 or 13 years of age. These back teeth are often the hardest to reach and keep clean, even with regular brushing. The sealant is applied to the chewing portion of the molar, where decay and cavities are most likely to occur.

Sealants have also been used on baby teeth when necessary, and for pits and grooves in adult teeth.

The procedure for applying dental sealants is simple and easy. First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned using a rotating brush and paste. Depending on the type of sealant that is used, an acidic liquid may need to be applied to the teeth to prepare them for the sealant. Once the solution has dried, it is washed off. Next, the dental sealant is painted onto to the teeth, filling any crevices, pits and grooves. As the sealant dries, it hardens, forming a protective coating over the teeth.

Sometimes a light is used to speed up the drying process. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes and is completely painless.

Types of dental sealants include resin, Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) and fluoride-containing sealants.

Sealants can last from five to ten years. They are also easily replaced if they become worn or chipped. If you have young children and are concerned about tooth decay and cavities, ask your dentist about dental sealants, one of the best ways of insuring your child’s oral health.

Northbrook Court Dental Recommends Dental Sealants for Children

Northbrook, Illinois – Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) says children and teens can protect their teeth from decay and cavities by using dental sealants. The fluoride-releasing sealants prevent tooth erosion caused by the sugars, acids and bacteria from food particles.

“Children can be extremely susceptible to tooth decay, especially when they eat sweets on a regular basis,” says Dr. Michael Vold, founder of Northbrook Court Dental Associates. “Dental sealants are an easy and effective way of prevent decay and related tooth problems.”

Dental sealants are applied in a thin coat to the chewing surfaces of a child’s new molars after they have broken through the gums. The sealant fills in the tooth’s pits and groves. These “fissures” can be extremely deep, and are often the most difficult area of the mouth to keep clean, even with regular brushing and flossing.

The short and simple procedure begins by cleaning the tooth with paste and a rotating brush. The tooth is then covered with an acidic solution. After the gel has dried, it is washed off. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth, where it quickly dries and hardens. Sometimes a light is used to speed up the drying process. The entire procedure takes approximately one to two minutes per tooth.

Dental sealants are made of tooth-colored acrylic, which makes them virtually unnoticeable, even when the child is talking, laughing or smiling. Although sealants can last for up to ten years, the protective covering should be checked periodically by a dentist.

Sealants can also be used on baby teeth with deep crevices, and to fill in pits or grooves on teeth in other parts of the mouth.

For more information on dental sealants for children and teens, visit the Northbrook Court Dental Associates website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates Offers Drill-less Air Abrasion Dental Care

Northbrook, Illinois - Northbrook Court Dental Associates, a long time Northbrook dental clinic, has announced it now offers air abrasion, a new technique for removing tooth decay without the use of a drill.

“Because air abrasion produces significantly less heat, pressure, sound and vibration than a standard dental drill, patients experience much less discomfort,” says Dr. Michael Vold, D.D.S., J.D. “The technology can also be used without anesthetics.”

The air abrasion instrument works like a sandblaster. It uses compressed air or gas to emit a continuous stream of tiny particles made from silica, aluminum oxide or a baking soda mixture. When directed at the decaying part of the tooth, the particles quickly and efficiently strip away the decay. The decay is removed from the month with suctioning from a thin tube.

Some form of eye protection is usually necessary to prevent irritation. A rubber dam may also be needed to protect teeth that aren’t being treated.

Air abrasion is a safe and effective alternative to drilling. Not only does it minimize the possibility of fracturing or chipping a tooth, several areas of decay can be treated during one visit and a greater amount of healthy tooth tissue remains following the procedure. Air abrasion also keeps the mouth drier, which is beneficial for other procedures.

Air abrasion works extremely well when treating small cavities and to prepare teeth for composites. The technique can also be used to remove surface stains and tooth discolorations, repair cracks or chips, prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants, and to remove older restorations, crowns and bridges.

Compared to regular drills, the air abrasion is a good alternative for children, the elderly and patients who are nervous and fearful during dental procedures.

For more information on air abrasion dental care, or more information on their Northbrook dental care or about cosmetic dentistry, visit the Northbrook Court Dental Associates website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

What Are Dental Implants?

by Dr. Michael Vold

Dental implants are tiny screws, typically made of titanium, that are used as a replacement for missing tooth roots. Designed to fuse with bone, they provide the foundation for replacement teeth, including crowns, bridges and dentures.

The loss of a tooth can not only make smiling uncomfortable, it can also cause problems with chewing, and biting. Tooth loss also affects the jawbone. Without the tooth, the bone starts to shrink and will become brittle over time.

One of the primary reasons for tooth loss is tooth decay. Plaque builds up in the mouth when teeth aren’t brushed and flossed regularly or properly. The plaque contains sugars and acids that eat through tooth enamel, resulting in cavities. If the deterioration isn’t stopped, the damage can lead to the loss of teeth.

Tooth loss also occurs from periodontal disease, which causes gum tissue to recede. Gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis) can be treated. If the infection progresses, it can result in the loss of connective tissue and bone. More than 75% of U.S. adults currently have some form of periodontal disease.

Accidents involving major impacts, such as falls, sporting injuries and auto accidents, can cause tooth loss as well.

According to recent studies, most Americans will have lost an average of 12 teeth by age 50, and one out of every four people will have lost all of their teeth by the time they reach 60 years of age.

Dental implants are extremely durable and considered a permanent solution to the loss of a tooth. Because the implant fuses with the bone, you no longer have to be concerned about bone loss or gum recession.

The dental implant procedure involves several steps. First, any remaining pieces of the missing tooth are removed. A small hole is then drilled into your jaw where the screw will be placed. Once the screw has been inserted, a protective cover is placed on top. This part of the procedure is generally conducted with a local anesthetic. It can take from three to six months for the screw to anchor itself in to the jawbone, after which the post is attached to the implant. The last, restorative part of the process involves taking impressions to create a prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the implant.

Sometimes a jawbone isn’t thick or strong enough for the procedure, in which case bone grafting may be needed. The grafting process involves transplanting a bone piece from another part of your body to your jawbone. A bone graft can take several months to heal.

The success rate for both upper and lower jaw implants is extremely high. Once the entire process is completed, your implant teeth will feel and look natural.

If you have a missing tooth, your dentist can discuss all of your options in detail so that you can make the best possible decision regarding your teeth. Just remember that replacing a missing tooth as soon as possible is important in order to prevent gum and bone deterioration.

Northbrook Court Dental Makes Patient Protection and Safety Top Priorities for 2013

Northbrook, Illinois - Northbrook Court Dental Associates (http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com) has announced that it has reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety by making it a top priority for office staff in the coming year.

“The protection of our patients has always been a primary concern,” says Northbrook Court Dental Associates founder Michael Vold, D.D.S. “Throughout 2013, we will continue to implement whatever policies and procedures are necessary to fully safeguard their health.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates has always strictly observed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and guidelines for dental offices, including proper label coding of instruments, the use of safer needles and extensive employee training.

The dental office implements various sterilization procedures throughout the day, including the disinfection of treatment surfaces, chairs, instruments, trays, lights, x-ray units, trays and equipment before and after each patient’s visit. The staff uses the safest and most effective disinfectant products currently available, as well as a wide range of disposable items such as needles, air and water tips, saliva ejectors, suction tips, cups and bibs.

Because of concerns regarding the bacteria found in the city water, Northbrook Court Dental Associates has installed a self-contained water system that runs distilled water through dental hoses, hand pieces and syringes.

The clinic’s staff has all been vaccinated against the Hepatitis-B virus, and wears masks, safety glasses and new gloves for each patient. Patients wear safety glasses when being worked on as well.

Northbrook Court Dental Associates employees also participate in ongoing continuing education classes on a variety of patient protection issues, including new infection control techniques and CPR certification.