Neuromuscular Dentistry

Neuromuscular Dentistry and the TMJ (temporomandibular joint)

Neuromuscular dentistry is based upon the ability to objectively measure muscle function and correlate it to a proper jaw position and movement during function. This technique adjusts a person's "bite" and can help alleviate symptoms ranging from headaches, neck and back aches, to numbness, pain in the jaw joints and many others that may initially seem to be unrelated. Neuromuscular dentistry can be used to treat symptoms arising from disorders of the jaw joint known as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

The Dentistry at Vitality Health team is one of a few dental practices involved in the philosophy of neuromuscular dentistry.

TMDs

TMDs or temporomandibular joint disorders are a group of chronic degenerative diseases that often take years to develop. TMDs affect millions of people. Those who suffer with TMDs often have an imbalance in their jaw position or muscular relationship, which can often be caused by a bad bite (malocclusion).

When the jaw is misaligned, both the hard and soft tissues are affected and many physiological problems can result such as headaches, jaw pain, neck and shoulder pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and clicking, grinding and popping sounds in the jaw joint. This results in TMD or MPD (myofascial pain dysfunction).

TMDs are frequently treatable by neuromuscular dentistry. Neuromuscular dentistry places the jaw into its optimal position, relieving the symptoms associated with TMDs. While traditional dentistry primarily evaluates the teeth, bones, and gums, neuromuscular dentistry works with the soft tissues, muscles and nerves. Neuromuscular dentists understand that your hard and soft tissues have a complex relationship and focus on making that relationship a harmonious one. Neuromuscular dentists understand the necessity of including the power source (muscles) and the controls (nerves), which create the movement, forces, and balance necessary for all oral structures.