Neuromuscular Dentistry
Traditional dentistry is based on mechanical concepts that assume that your present
bite (occlusion) is best for you. Such dental treatment generally aims to restore
your bite to that position- what might be called two-dimensional dentistry. Neuromuscular
dentistry takes into consideration a third dimension - the status and function of
the muscles that control jaw position, chewing and swallowing. Using computerized
equipment, we can measure and study full range jaw movements in three dimensions.
Using the computer, we document the precise point at which your jaw is being held
in relation to the upper teeth and can measure the activity of the key muscles that
control the jaw - both in function and at rest. This test data is used to determine
if your jaw can be placed in a more optimal position to relieve muscle tension and
pain.
Neuromuscular Testing
The tests are non-invasive, there are no injections, and there is no pain. To do
a Computerized Mandibular Scan (CMS), a tiny magnet is applied to your lower gum
with tape. Lightweight headgear equipped with sensors follows the path of the magnets
as you open and close your mouth. The sensor data is converted in three-dimensional
information.
Muscle activity is monitored with Surface Electromyography (SEMG). Adhesive electrodes
are used to transmit the electrical signals emitted by your muscles to a computer.
In addition to the CMS and SEMG, we study the sounds of your jaw joints. Electrosonography
(ESG) uses a headset that holds microphone-like sensors over each jaw joint to detect
joint sound vibrations.
Because the muscles controlling the jaw are subconsciously "programmed" by the brain,
most individuals have difficulty consciously reaching a truly relaxed state. To
help your muscles reach this relaxed state, a medical device called the Myomonitor
(TENS treatment) is used to deliver gentle electrical stimulation to your muscles.
This mild electrical stimulation is delivered through adhesive patch electrodes
attached over nerves that control specific facial muscle groups. This stimulus will
cause your facial and jaw muscles to twitch or pulse once every one and one half
seconds. After about 40-60 minutes, this electrically induced "exercise" will allow
your muscles to overcome their programming and go to a relaxed state. At this point
we use a very sophisticated jaw tracking computer (KSI) that determines within 1/10
of a millimeter the optimal positioning of your occlusion. To stabilize this position
we use highly effective orthotic therapy. This therapy is far superior to traditional
splint therapy, which sought to establish the correct bite by means of an artificially
manipulative positioning instead of bringing the jaw and surrounding muscles into
a harmonious balance. No drugs, no surgery - only relief.
