Monthly Archives: February 2015

TMJ

Numbness in my fingers

I’ve been having muscle spasms in my neck and shoulders. I thought it was stress, but now my fingers are going numb. I’ve been doing some research and wondered if all my problems could be from TMJ, even  the numb fingers?

Elinor D. – Maryland

Elinor,

Yes, you’re likely on the right track. The muscles spasms could be caused from TMJ. These in turn can impinge on your nerves. Those nerves lead down your extremities.  That could be causing the numbness in your fingers.

You’ll need to see a dentist with experience treating TMJ. They can do some diagnostic work in order to determine if TMJ is really your problem.

Sometimes, it is a simple fix that can bring you immense relief.  Just be sure whatever dentist you go to has specific training in neuromuscular dentistry. The Dawson Academy and Spear Institute  are two good institutions for training, as well as LVI. Don’t be hesitant to ask what training they have.

This blog is brought to you by Salem, MA Dentist Dr. Randall Burba.

Uncategorized

What can keep my dentures from slipping

I can’t afford dental implants, so I’m stuck wtih dentures.  I know there is nothing I can do about that, but wondered if there is any way to keep them from slipping.? Please tell me there is.

Donna M. – Staten Island, NY

Donna,

I’m sorry. There is nothing worse than knowing there is a better treatment out there, but you can’t afford it. Fortunately, there is a way to make living with dentures a little easier. That includes keeping them from slipping.

Has your dentist mentioned snap on dentures to you?  It essentially is anchoring your dentures to your jawbone. That will keep you from having complete loss of your jaw bone.

Another thing I’d like to bring up. If you truly desire dental implants, there is a way to do them in stages.  You can get two implants at a time, giving you time to save up for each set. This will further secure your appliance, eventually giving you the comfortable tooth replacements you’ve been wanting.

This blog is brought to you by Salem, MA Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Randall Burba.