Your Mission Invisalign Provider
TMJ Disorder Treatment in Mission
Our dentists in Mission use the Kois Deprogrammer to diagnose and treat TMJ-related jaw pain, headaches, and ringing in the ears.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint, is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing your mouth to move up and down and side to side for talking and chewing.
Over time, the muscles and joints involved in jaw movement can experience wear and tear, which may lead to discomfort or problems such as:
- Pain
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Discomfort or difficulty when chewing or opening the mouth
- Limited jaw opening
- Severe wear or breakdown of teeth
- Ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears
Treatment for TMJ
Drs. Joe and Diana Germain have each spent many years studying TMJ and bite problems at the world renowned Kois Center, and are proud to offer patients the Kois Deprogrammer appliance.
The Kois Deprogrammer appliance can help diagnose potential bite issues and provides a guide for planning future treatment. It also helps your dentist plan the best way for your teeth to come together, creating a bite that feels comfortable, works properly, and reduces the risk of future problems.
This removable, retainer-like device fits over the front teeth and keeps the back teeth from touching, helping to relax the jaw muscles. By using the Kois Deprogrammer, your dentist can evaluate the stability of your bite and plan treatment more effectively.
TMJ FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about TMJ disorder and the Kois Deprogrammer below.
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How does the Kois Deprogrammer work?
Every time you chew or swallow, your jaw adjusts to fit your teeth. If this alignment isn’t ideal for your jaw joint and muscles, you may be at higher risk of facial pain, as well as worn, broken, or loose teeth.
The Kois Deprogrammer helps by preventing your teeth from locking together, removing their influence on your bite system and supporting a more natural position.
This allows your lower jaw to relax into a comfortable position. Once it has fully relaxed, your dentist can recommend treatment options to help maintain your bite in this healthier, more comfortable position.
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How long do I need to wear my Kois Deprogrammer?
Your dentist will likely recommend wearing the Kois Deprogrammer for up to one month. During this time, it should only be removed for eating and brushing your teeth.
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How will my Kois Deprogrammer feel in my mouth?
The Kois Deprogrammer is designed for comfort, and most people adjust to speaking with it in just a few days. Some may feel slight soreness in their chewing muscles at first, but this usually goes away once the muscles relax.
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Will my bite stay changed if I choose not to move forward with treatment after using the Kois Deprogrammer?
No, if you remove the Kois Deprogrammer, your chewing system will return to your original bite within a few hours.
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How do I care for my Kois Deprogrammer?
Clean your appliance every time you clean your teeth. Gently brush your appliance with toothpaste and rinse it with warm water. Any time the Kois Deprogrammer is out of your mouth, keep it in its retainer box.
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How much will it change my bite?
The change in your bite is usually very slight, although the improvement in the feel of your bite after wearing the Kois Deprogrammer can be dramatic. If you have any further questions regarding the Kois Deprogrammer, please feel free to contact us.
New Patients Welcome
Looking for a dentist in Mission? Heritage Dental Centre is accepting new patients and can provide personalized dental care for you and your family. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile.