Composite dental veneers offer a cost-effective and versatile solution to enhance your smile. Composite veneers are applied directly to your teeth and carefully sculpted into the correct anatomical shape for optimal function. They are a quick, affordable treatment option for a variety of dental concerns such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. Because they require less preparation and are more inexpensive than traditional porcelain veneers, they are an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their smile at a reduced cost.
Dental Veneers Can Help TMJ
For patients experiencing TMJ issues, composite dental veneers present a less invasive and comfortable treatment option. By restoring the shape and functionality of damaged teeth, composite veneers can help address malocclusion, one of the primary causes of TMJ. I have over ten years of experience in enhancing smiles with composite veneers, which are not only affordable but also durable, lasting for years when the TMJ condition is stable. While I also offer porcelain veneers for those who prefer them, many patients find composite veneers to be a more conservative and cost-effective alternative.
Dental veneers are acclaimed for their ability to provide a brighter, more youthful smile, but these aren’t the only advantages they provide. Believe it or not, they can also be used to treat TMJ! Dentists will often use veneers to restore the shape and functionality of damaged teeth in order to treat malocclusion, one of the leading causes of TMJ. Dental veneers can be utilized as an affordable alternative that is also less invasive and more comfortable for the patient.
As long as the TMJ is stable, the Composite Veneers last for years are are offered as an affordable, conservative alternative.
Dedicated to Treating TMJ Disorder (TMD)
TMJ Disorder (TMD) is a common but often misunderstood condition. Symptoms may manifest in ways that seem unrelated to dental health such as back pain, facial pain, headaches, and sleeplessness. Because of this, TMD is frequently misdiagnosed, even though an estimated 10 million Americans suffer from some form of this painful condition.
For over 25 years I have dedicated my time and energy to studying, researching, and learning about this challenging condition. In order to gain a better understanding of this complex condition, I’ve completed numerous educational courses and professional training’s. I have had the privilege to undergo extensive training with some of the top educators such as the Dawson Center, Dr. Frank Spears, The Schuster Center, and was part of the pilot group with the Texas Center for Occlusal Studies (which is now The Stewart Center for Minimally Invasive Medicine), and OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry, which focused on holistic, minimally invasive methods for treating degenerative chewing systems. I have completed and graduated from OBI’s Level 3 “Bioesthetic Treatment” curriculum, which focused on the Bioesthetic diagnostic process, conservative treatment options, development of an ideal treatment plan, and a full completion of stabilization and restoration on an actual patient.
The three Tenets of Bioesthetic Treatment are:
(1) To stabilize the jaw in the jaw joint.
(2) Make sure the front teeth function properly to guide the jaw and clear the back teeth in movement and all contact when the jaw is seated in the joint.
(3) To restore the teeth to their biologic ideal anatomic form and function.
Over more than two decades, I’ve been able to successfully treat hundreds of patients who suffer from TMJ/TMD and witnessed first-hand the remarkable difference that the right treatment plan can make in someone’s life. Patients who once dealt with terrible jaw and face pain, on a daily basis, are able to find relief from their symptoms and experience a completely different quality of life.
From all the training and my own professional experience, I know what methods work best for treating TMJ and yield long-term results. I’ve seen many of my patients make a full recovery and find lasting relief from debilitating symptoms that used to trouble them day and night.
The reason that I’m telling you all this is because I want you to know that recovering from TMJ/TMD is possible! And you don’t have to undergo expensive, painful procedures like jaw surgery. There are affordable treatment options like Bite Split Therapy and Composite Veneers that can provide effective, lasting relief from your pain and symptoms.
Bite Problems:
TMJ symptoms like jaw pain, jaw locking, and teeth grinding are often linked to a patient’s bite. A “bad bite” is when the upper and lower sets of teeth do not come together properly as they should, resulting in disharmony in the dental system. Because of this, the facial muscles have to work harder, which can lead to muscle spasming and displacement of the TMJs (jaw joints).
Worn, Chipped & Cracked Teeth:
It’s not uncommon for TMJ sufferers to have chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth. TMJ places the teeth under an enormous amount of pressure. Over time, the teeth may become damaged or incur excessive wear as a result of constant jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Worn-down teeth can also affect the way you chew and bite.
Treating Bite Problems & TMJ/TMD:
The first step in treating TMJ/TMD is to confirm whether the patient has a stable bite. If your bite is stable and you’re not in pain, we can work on restoring your dental health. Composite Veneers can be a great low-cost, conservative treatment option for restoring damaged teeth.
But if there are issues with your bite, it will need to be stabilized. To accomplish this, I utilize a non-invasive method known as “MAGO Therapy.” MAGO (Maxillary Anterior Guided Orthotic) Therapy is a form of Oral Appliance Therapy.
Patients who undergo this treatment wear a special dental device for a period of about 4-12 weeks. The goal during this time is to keep the teeth apart so that the jaw muscles can relax, allowing the jaw joints to return to a stable position.
First, the patient undergoes a comprehensive exam, and measurements are taken so that a custom device can be made. Then, the patient returns to my office once a week so that I can take measurements of their jaw position and, if necessary, make adjustments to the device.
This process helps stabilize the jaw joints and chewing muscles so that an accurate diagnosis can be formed. It also helps provide relief from symptoms like headaches and jaw pain. Once we can stabilize your bite and determine the root cause of the issue, we can move on to the next phase of treatment.
How Can Dental Veneers Help with TMJ?
Once the patient’s bite is stable, dental veneers can be used to restore cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth. Restoring the anatomy of the teeth allows them to function as they’re designed. Teeth that have the right shape and are in the correct position can come together properly. This eliminates issues with the patient’s bite, preventing TMJ symptoms from returning.
Composite Veneers are a fantastic option for patients seeking affordable treatment. These are a conservative alternative to Porcelain Veneers made from translucent dental-grade resin. When placed over the biting surfaces of the teeth, they create symmetry and facilitate proper bite alignment.
Some additional benefits of Composite Veneers include:
• Less costly than Porcelain Veneers
• More conservative and not as damaging to your teeth
• Quick process (sometimes same-day)
• Natural looking and aesthetically pleasing
• More versatile and functional
• Easier to fix if they get damaged
• Last 5-7 years or longer
• Protect your teeth from further wear and tear
Not only can Composite Veneers treat the root cause of TMJ, but they can also give you a brighter, more beautiful smile. Most importantly, by treating the biological issues affecting your dental health, you can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life!
Sincerely,
Dr. Mike Gallagher, DDS
Restore Your Smile with Composite Veneers!
Dental visits don’t have to be painful or expensive, nor should they be! Everyone deserves to have good dental health and be comfortable and disease-free. That’s why I’ve chosen to offer options like Composite Veneers to Eden Prairie patients seeking affordable TMJ treatment and Restorative Dentistry. Call my office today at 952-942-9600 to schedule your appointment or learn more.
More About Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center
Dr. Michael Gallagher and our Eden Prairie Dentistry team are committed to providing exceptional care and empowering our patients with information about their dental health. If you have any questions about our services or would like to schedule an appointment, we invite you to give us a call at (952) 942-9600. The outstanding experience of our dental team, Dr. Gallagher, and the skills of our staff have helped us in successfully treating our patient’s oral problems. We’re always welcoming new patients throughout Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Minnetonka, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Burnsville, Plymouth, Eagan, Richfield and surrounding areas. For more information, please contact us!
Schedule Your TMJ Care Appointment Today
Gallagher Dentistry & Facial Pain Center specializes in TMJ care and is looking forward to providing you with the personalized treatment that you need. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment!
