Neuromuscular Dentures
Providing dentures superior in appearance and function requires a combination of
science and art. Neuromuscular Dentistry (NMD) is the science part of the formula.
The "neuromuscular dentist" is one who studies computer generated information concerning
the status and function of the muscles and joints involved in your bite (occlusion),
in addition to all of the traditional means of dental diagnosis.
In other words, the neuromuscular dentist considers teeth, muscles and joints -
not just teeth. This expanded information permits the dentist to optimize the bite
that in turn provides better function.
Take a few minutes to watch the second video in the "Video Gallery" on the left
column. This education video will help you better understand the procedures and
advantages of neuromuscular dentures.
How does NMD help provide superior dentures?
When restoring a single tooth, the dentist can use the rest of your teeth as a reference
for how high the new tooth should be and how it fits. An edentulous patient (one
without teeth) presents a bigger challenge - where do you put the bite? Where to
establish the bite (how high to make the upper and lower teeth) has traditionally
been largely an arbitrary decision based on the dentist's experience. While the
patient may get by with this arbitrary bite position, it frequently leads to functional
problems in chewing or speech and may also result in considerable discomfort or
pain. An arbitrary bite position may also result in a very unnatural look.
In NMD, the dentist precisely measures the activity of the muscles that control
the jaw and determines an optimum jaw position from that study. The bite is then
built to this jaw position - one dictated by your own body when the muscles are
truly relaxed.
In the neuromuscular evaluation process the NM dentist also looks for any abnormalities
in your jaw function and will take steps to correct them in finalizing the dentures.
Technology is also used in taking the impressions for making your dentures. This
leads to a denture base that is held in place by the soft tissues of the cheeks,
preventing "rocking" or looseness of the denture.
Where does the art come in?
Establishing the bite and identifying functional problems are based on the scientific,
computer-aided diagnosis. Art is applied when it comes to the aesthetic part of
finalizing your denture design. Dentists utilizing neuromuscular principles have
also extensively studied the art of producing dentures with a natural, pleasant
look.
Even the smallest details of tooth selection and placement are studied - size of
various teeth, angle at which they are set, ratios of height to width, shade &
color, and many other factors. In the end, all of these features come together to
produce a remarkably natural looking appearance.
The Result: Form and Function
Dentures based on neuromuscular principles were developed over forty years ago making
this a time-proven method. Now modern evaluation instrumentation and a plethora
of new materials have led an increasing number of dentists to provide this professional
service. Instrument technology, materials and aesthetic art combine to produce dentures
that are truly superior.
There is no need for denture patients to suffer the discomfort or embarrassment
of poorly functioning or ill-fitting dentures. As one patient (with a big smile)
said the day after receiving her new neuromuscular dentures, "I ate steak last night
for the first time in ages!"
More questions? Just ask!
Aesthetically pleasing, well functioning dentures can have a marked positive effect
on your personality and your quality of life. If you have further questions about
neuromuscular dentures or your own special circumstances, don't hesitate to
ask us.