If you’ve ever dealt with nagging jaw pain, headaches, or muscle tension around your face and neck, you know how much it can disrupt your day. Whether it’s from clenching, grinding, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, the discomfort often feels relentless.
What if relief didn’t involve medication or invasive treatments? TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit therapy – used in neuromuscular dentistry – can help soothe tight muscles gently and effectively.
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, Drs. Ken and Marnie Collins bring over 25 years of experience and advanced training in neuromuscular dentistry to address jaw pain at its source. Their practice has been voted Spokane’s Best Dentist for six consecutive years, a testament to their commitment to exceptional care.
What Is a TENS Unit?
A TENS unit delivers low-frequency electrical pulses to stimulate muscles and nerves. In dentistry, it’s used to relax overworked facial and jaw muscles, which are often the root cause of discomfort.
Here’s how it works:
- A dentist places small electrodes on the jaw or neck area.
- Gentle electrical pulses encourage the muscles to twitch and then release tension.
- After about 45–60 minutes, the muscles return to a more natural, relaxed state.
Most patients notice relief after just one or two sessions. Initially, treatments may occur 1–2 times weekly, with occasional follow-ups as needed. Long-term results are often achieved when TENS is combined with other neuromuscular therapies.
Why Use TENS in Neuromuscular Dentistry?
Many dental problems, like clenching, misalignment, or TMJ disorder, stem from poor muscle function. When muscles are constantly tense, they can pull your jaw out of alignment and lead to:
- Chronic pain
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Headaches or migraines
TENS therapy calms these muscles down, creating the ideal conditions for evaluating your bite and crafting a personalized treatment plan.
Find the Comfort You’ve Been Seeking Today
Jaw pain doesn’t have to be your norm. When paired with expert neuromuscular care from trained professionals, TENS unit therapy can make a big difference in how you feel each day.
To learn whether this approach is right for you, contact Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics and find out how we can help you live with more ease. Call our Spokane Valley office at 509-927-2273 or our South Hill practice at 509-532-1111.
