TMJ disorder, or temporomadibular joint disorder is a common diagnosis for many patients across the country.  This disorder can be a bite imbalance  involving the jaw joint as well as the associated muscles and teeth.  

In a recent article published in Wrightsville Beach Magazine, Dr. Michael Kuzma, D.D.S, of Kuzma Advanced Dentistry says, "The bite imbalances can be likened to having a pebble in your shoe. If you continue to walk with that imbalance, the muscles and joints of your knee, hip and back would soon be affected. This is also what is happening when you have imbalances in your bite; signs and symptoms will soon be present." 

That embarrassing snoring habit your spouse complains about during family gatherings may have something in common with the worn down teeth the dentist is always harassing you about at checkups. Both of these seemingly harmless habits may be symptoms of a serious health problem, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Research presented at the 2009 American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) showed that 1 in 4 patients suffering from OSA also suffered from nocturnal bruxism, commonly known as nighttime teeth grinding. It is estimated that approximately 10% of the US population suffers from bruxism which can lead to migraines, tension-type headaches, TMJ pain, and cracked or worn teeth.

Dr. Allan M. Miller opened his family dental practice in Briarcliff Manor, NY after graduating from NYU in 1977. His practice's focus is to provide patients with superior care with an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, implant restoration, and headache treatment. Dr. Miller is a longtime Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), an organization dedicated to better patient care through continuing dental education. Below, he shares his experiences with the NTI-tss Plus, the most effective FDA approved, drug-free migraine preventative.

After years of prescribing full-arch traditional night guards for patients with TMJ pain, worn teeth, headaches, and migraines, I began seeking another treatment option. Too many patients wouldn't wear the large night guards and others complained that it made their headaches and TMJ pain worse. I found that when patients clench and grind their teeth while wearing full night guards, they were able to do so with greater intensity, oftentimes leading to increased pain.