Dr. Ralph Garcia Jr.
Dr. Garcia is a pioneer in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders. He is the AAFO clinician of the Year for 2001 and has been educating clinicians on the use of Computerized Diagnostic Aids since the 70's.
"I have been utilizing electrodiagnostic procedures for over 30 years, and cannot envision practicing dentistry without the data provided by jaw tracking, electromyography and joint vibration analysis."
"Jaw tracking provides documentation of mandibular range of motion and the quality, direction, and speed of mandibular movement; all of which aid in the diagnosis of pathologic jaw problems."
"Electromyography provides accurate data regarding muscle activity during rest and function, and demonstrates muscle recruitment during chewing, clenching and swallowing which allows for precise diagnosis of any muscle pathology."
"The data from jaw tracking and electromyography allows for monitoring treatment response and serves as an aid in directing treatment. In fact, electromyographic data was instrumental in the design of my night appliance, which prevents recruitment of the mandibular elevator muscles."
"Joint vibration analysis is the most precise and economical method of detecting articular disk disorders and degenerative changes in the temporomandibular joint. We use it before and during treatment to monitor treatment response. Joint vibration analysis is an excellent tool to demonstrate to the patient the changes in temporomandibular joint function, before, during, and after treatment."
"The most obvious advantage of using electrodiagnostic procedures is that they become your most proficient "teachers" in the area of temporomandibular joint disorders, orthopedics and orthodontics, and compel you to elevate the quality of treatment rendered to your patients, thereby affording you the highest level of success."
Find out more: www.tmjtampabay.com