Physical Therapy and Dentistry
Temporomandibular joint problems begin early in life even though the symptoms are no present until the adult years. Physical therapy in collaboration with Dentistry provides an increasingly successful approach to longer lasting treatment. A correlation between class II occlusion (overbite) and forward head posture provides further evidence that the team approach is essential.
Many Temporomandibular Disorder - TMD (also known as TMJ pain dysfunction syndrome) headaches and referred pains from the neck and shoulders are caused by compression of the cervical (neck) joints.
The proper orientation of four planes: the vertical plane, the bipupilar line (nose), the plane of otic system and occlusal plane are necessary for case success. Treatment involves the proper body mechanics, overcoming parafunctional oral habits, and instruction to restore mobility of the spine.
The coordinated approach treatment involves dental and medical professionals and physiotherapists to intercept many serious conditions.
