HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - Aug 9, 2012) - The National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) estimates in recent statistics that over 10 million Americans suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and muscle disorders. A condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement, TMJ is the second most commonly occurring musculoskeletal condition, after chronic lower back pain, and affects approximately 5 to 12 percent of the population. Despite its widespread effects, Houston cosmetic dentist Dr. Jeffrey Schultz says a conservative approach to treating TMJ is often all that is needed, and he has observed great success in helping patients minimize jaw pain through several advanced techniques.
At his Houston cosmetic dentistry practice, Dr. Schultz focuses on a wide variety of cosmetic and general procedures ranging from porcelain veneers and teeth whitening to routine cleanings and dental implants. He says patients seeking TMJ treatment in Houston typically come into his practice complaining of a deep pain in their jaw, usually in the morning, as well as clicking or popping noises when they chew or open their mouth. Most often caused by clenching or grinding of the teeth at night, Dr. Schultz says he takes extensive measures to evaluate the patient's symptoms through a thorough background check and questionnaire so as to be sure his treatment plan offers them the most custom relief possible: "The goal of our treatment plan is to help relieve the tension from TMJ and migraines so that patients may live a life free from pain."
Dr. Schultz says a conservative approach to treating TMJ takes into consideration the entirety of a patient's health background and symptoms to help the dentist make an evaluation based on the severity and duration of the condition. While most issues can be resolved with anti-inflammatory medicines, massage therapy and specific exercises, or custom night guards, he says patients may need a consultation with an orthodontist in rare, severe cases where major bite or occlusion problems are present. Through several types of advanced acrylic night guards, Dr. Schultz says most TMJ symptoms can be significantly alleviated and patients can reduce the clenching and grinding that causes pain. He adds that only in very extreme cases should surgery be considered, and patients should use it only as a last resort.
"In my 22 years of treating the condition, I have never had one patient who needed any type of TMJ surgery," he says. "Almost 100 percent of my patients have been able to be treated through advanced orthodontic appliances or one of the other conservative treatments we have available at our practice."
As with any dental procedure, whether it be TMJ treatment or porcelain veneers in Houston, Dr. Schultz says he encourages all patients to consult with an experienced and qualified dentist before undergoing any treatment. He says patients who take the time to research their procedure and their practice extensively will be able to achieve the safest, most effective results possible, and ensure their treatment is performed with the utmost care.
About Jeffrey L. Schultz, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Jeffrey Schultz is a graduate of the University of Houston and the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston. He has achieved Fellowship status with the Academy of General Dentistry, one of the most rigorous continuing education awards offered by the organization, and a graduate of the Hornbrook Group for advanced training in aesthetic dentistry. Dr. Schultz has also been selected as one of the Top Dentists in H Texas magazine.
Located at 6565 West Loop South Suite 860 in Bellaire, TX, the Schultz Center for Cosmetic Dentistry can be reached at (713) 489-1350. It can also be contacted online via the website schultzsmiles.com or his facebook.com/pages/Schultz-Center-for-Cosmetic-Dentistry/134134999943002.
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