K-7 Evaluation System

K-7, by Myotronics, is a computerized scanner to diagnose and evaluate TMJ disorder. Dr. Sutter relies on the system to evaluate jaw movement and determine if and to what extent you have TMJ disorder. The K-7 creates 3D images of a patient’s mouth and jaw, measures electrical activity in the muscles, and tracks the sounds of the joint through a sonograph to assess damage. This information allows Dr. Sutter to design custom treatment plans for patients with TMJ disorder.

Referral and Evaluation Form

Dentistry in Keizer

Neuromuscular Dentistry/TMJ Therapy

Earaches
Headaches
Migraines
Inhibited jaw function

Face, neck, head pain
Unexplained tooth wear
Mouth, jaw pain
Popping jaws

Tingling extremities
Low back pain
Teeth grinding, clenching

When the joints that hold your lower jaw to your skull become misaligned, even slightly, nagging symptoms can result. If you suffer from any of the above conditions, Dr. Sutter would like to examine your jaw for temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMJ disorder.

With TMJ disorder, the muscles and nerves that work with your jaw joints for proper, comfortable oral function become over stimulated and stressed. This is where the pain originates. TMJ disorder can be caused by factors such as malocclusion, stress, fatigued jaw muscles, and heredity. Fortunately, there is a non-surgical solution that could eliminate your TMJ pain.

Dr. Sutter has completed coursework in neuromuscular dentistry at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, a well known postgraduate learning institution.

  • Neuro refers to nerves
  • Muscular refers to muscles
  • Dentistry refers to teeth

So neuromuscular dentistry is the study of how the entire oral system must work in harmony for comfort, function, beauty, and longevity. TMJ disorder can cause a host of problems that build upon one another for years, destroying oral function and comfort.

Dr. Sutter is the only dentist in the Keizer or Salem area who has the advanced diagnostic capability of an in-office K-7 Evaluation System. In an examination, he can determine if your jaw joints are misaligned. Then, depending upon your unique situation, he may recommend:

  • A custom oral splint to reposition your jaw and stop nighttime teeth grinding,
  • building up back teeth to permanently reposition your bite,
  • performing stress-relief exercises or physical therapy,
  • and/or altering your habits (like stop gum chewing).

Call Northwest Dental Arts today to reserve your neuromuscular dentistry examination with LVI dentist, Dr. Sutter. Be sure to ask about our cash discounts. We give residents of Keizer and surrounding areas personalized care for smiles that shine!