Neuromuscular Dentistry

TMJ Neuromuscular dentistry focuses on the correction of misalignment of jaws. Neuromuscular dentists / TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) specialists determine the optimal position of the jaw in order to correct misalignment and adjust the relation of upper and lower teeth with each other (occlusion) and achieving a pain free equilibrated position of condyle of lower jaw with the cranium or head so that there is no pain or popping clicking sound on opening and closing or chewing of food from the TMJ(Temporomandibular Joint). By realigning the jaw joint through the use of cosmetic dental restorations, tooth re-contouring (equilibration) or orthodontics, dentists strive to alleviate stress from the jaw muscles and eliminate painful symptoms of  TMJ/ TMD.

Neuromuscular dentistry involves relationship among upper and lower teeth, muscles, nerves, bones and two temporomandibular joints (TMJs).When the teeth, jaw muscles and TMJs are not aligned or in equilibration, TMD symptoms occur.

In addition to X-rays or digital radio-graphs that reveal the position and condition of the jaw joints, dentists use several diagnostic technologies in order to determine the ideal position of your jaw to relieve TMD symptoms. These technologies include: recording the resting position of a person’s jaw, how it closes and any other movements, measuring the stressed and relaxed positions of a person’s jaw muscles, as well as identify any structural defects in the jaw joint, checking jaw joint sounds and determine the presence of any abnormalities.

If the jaw is not properly aligned, neuromuscular dentistry may help to address the precise cause of the problem — whether jaw joint (TMD), muscle(MPDS) or tooth position(OCCLUSION). Treatment plans developed by dentists are designed to correct bite abnormalities by allowing the jaws to go to their optimal adaptive equilibration positions for the long term. For example, dentists assert that muscle pain and spasm can be relieved using physical therapies like pressure packs, hot and moist fomentation, pharmacological therapies etc.

Adjustments to a person’s bite can be accomplished using an oral appliance — such as a splint or mouth guard — until the bite has been permanently stabilized. Or, orthodontic work may be required to ensure proper alignment, in addition to dental restorations such as crowns, or tooth re-contouring (equilibration) for permanent definitive treatment.

The cost of neuromuscular treatment depends upon your clinical situation and the procedures necessary to treat your condition & the expertise of the dentist. It is important to note that neuromuscular dentistry techniques are not the only methods for successfully treating TMD symptoms, or for developing treatment plans for occlusal and bite adjustments.

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