Occlusal guards are often used when there is a TMJ disorder diagnosed. They are also used to prevent clenching and grinding, which can lead to TMD (temporomandibular disorder) and migraines. Dr. Skees has three different kinds of occlusal guards that she recommends for different diagnoses.

When your TMJ (temporomandibular joint) has trauma (clenching, grinding, or external trauma) the joints and jaw muscles that make it possible to open and close your mouth, do not function properly. This can lead to inflammation inside the joint, cracked teeth, and even further damage.

Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and the socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and rotate or glide. Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones from working properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

We understand those with Chronic Migraines are in pain on a regular basis. Dr. Skees is certified in the therapeutic treatment of Migraines with muscle relaxing injections. 

The Process for Treatment:

• Dr Skees will diagnose and isolate the trigger points for each patient individually
• She then uses a very small needle (that you can barely feel) to place the appropriate amount of product in those points
• She will do a two week post-op to check in on treatment and adjust as necessary
• To continue with these results, treatment will need to be completed four times a year

This can prevent headaches and Migraines instead of treating them after the pain has begun. This has helped over 100,000 people since the FDA approval in 2010 and Dr. Skees has directly seen the results in her patient pool, as well as herself.