Technology

At TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan, Dr. Jerry Mulder and Dr. Allyson Mulder specialize in treating unique ailments such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and sleep apnea while maximizing the comfort and convenience for each of our patients. As part of our commitment to providing the highest level of care, we also strive to maintain state-of-the-art technology and tools at our office in Grand Rapids.

Here are some of the specific technologies we use to treat our patients at TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan:

• Digital X-ray:X-rays have been a tried-and-true diagnostic method in dentistry for decades, but digital X-rays represent a significant upgrade over traditional X-ray machines. These digital machines produce images that are clearer and more precise, meaning fewer X-rays are taken. This minimizes the amount of time each of our patients spends receiving X-rays, while also minimizing their radiation exposure—which still is minimal, as compared to traditional X-ray technology.
• ICAT/3D Conebeam:This imaging system produces three-dimensional images of all the hard tissues and soft tissues in the mouth. These images can be sized to focus on just a few teeth or take a wider view of even the entire skull. The images produced by the conebeam also allow our doctors to see nasal and throat airways, detecting any blockages that may be causing snoring or a sleep breathing disorder.
• CERAC:One of the latest advances in the technology used in dental science, this machine allows restorations to be made chairside, which means no need to wait weeks on a dental laboratory. To begin, we take digital impressions of your teeth and mouth. This process is much easier and more comfortable for patients than using the traditional “goop” that is messy and does not yield precise results. After taking digital impressions, those images are sent to a computer, which produces precise, beautiful restorations that can be milled by the CERAC machine in as little as 15 minutes. We can choose the correct shade of porcelain to be placed on the exterior of the restoration.
• Cold Laser:Dental lasers have become a go-to tool for dentists operating at the forefront of the field, but many who know about using lasers to eliminate infected gum tissue or perform other soft-tissue procedures do not know about cold laser therapy. Able to be applied directly through the cheek, cold lasers reduce pain and inflammation in patients suffering from TMJ disorder by breaking down the lactic acid in the muscles. A cold laser treatment takes about 10 minutes, with five to 12 treatments needed to achieve results.
• JVA:Standing for joint vibration analysis, this serves as a fast, non-invasive, and reliable way to measure function in patients suffering from TMJ disorder. This diagnostic method records the vibrations made by joint tissues as the joints move. A joint vibration analysis also allows your Big Rapids neuromuscular dentist to monitor the temporomandibular joints over time, making it easy to note any degeneration that may indicate a relapse or the progression of a jaw joint ailment.
• K-7:This cutting-edge diagnostic system combines electromyography, which monitors the electrical impulses that are emitted naturally from the jaw, and electrosonography, which detects any sounds emanating from the jaw joints as they open and close. The results can detect any inordinate stress and strain being exerted on the jaw musculature, while any pops, clicks, or grinding sounds can be indicators that a patient is suffering from TMJ disorder. This information, along with the speed and movement of the jaws, is entered into a computerized mandibular scanner, which then produces images depicting the optimum alignment of the bite and jaw.
• TENS:TENS (which is short for transcutaneous electrical neuro stimulation) sends low-frequency electrical impulses that serve as a means of muscle relaxation. TENS can be used to ease strain in the muscles of the jaw, head, and neck—all of which often are impacted or compressed by a case of TMJ disorder. TENS provides initial relief for these strained muscles, while our doctors treat the cause of the TMJ disorder. We also can use TENS to stimulate muscle contractions and determine the ideal resting position of the jaw and, with it, the preferred alignment.

TMJ & Sleep Disorders – Grand Rapids

To learn more about the ways we use the latest advances in technology to treat TMJ and sleep disorders, schedule a consultation by calling (616) 929-0892.

TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan is here to serve patients in the areas of Grand Rapids, Holland, and Big Rapids, Michigan.