Energy use of EMG in dentistry

EMG also can determine if a muscle pain problem is emanating primarily from the jaw muscles or from the spinal muscles.

by Dr. Nicholas Meyer — 

This article looks at the use of energy from a diagnostic viewpoint, specifically electromyography. Electromyography (EMG) is commonly used by neurologists, physical medicine specialists and others. A widely known form of EMG is the electrocardiogram (ECG), whereby small electrodes are attached to certain points of the skin so that the heart rhythm can be read.

In dentistry, EMG is used to assess the status of the muscles of the head and neck at rest and in function. For example, when the jaw-closing muscles are healthy in function, the pattern of firing is symmetrical (balanced) and robust. When in dysfunction, the pattern is typically asymmetrical (out of balance) and can cause illnesses, such as chronic headaches or other facial pain maladies.

Reaching for the bottle of pain reliever simply masks the physical symptoms of the asymmetry. Fortunately, in most cases, treatment focuses on correcting the asymmetrical firing pattern of the muscles, and a good outcome can result. This is most commonly performed, at least initially, with a bite appliance that can restore the symmetry and help alleviate related symptoms.

EMG also can determine if pain from a muscle problem is emanating primarily from the jaw muscles or from the spinal muscles. The astute interpreter can make this distinction fairly quickly and then direct the patient towards the proper therapy — body work, dental intervention or a combination of the two.

Energy uses in dentistry are varied. I will continue to explore other examples in future articles.

Nicholas Meyer, D.D.S., D.N.M., is a general dentist in Scottsdale, Ariz., with a special interest in the functional aspects of the oral cavity that contribute to such maladies as TMJ, snoring and sleep apnea. 480-948-0560, DrMeyer@milldental.com or www.milldental.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 29, Number 4, Aug/Sept 2010.