Solutions
Symptoms of Neuromuscular Dentistry
Headaches
Jaw pain
Ear congestion
Loose teeth
Facial pain
Ringing in the ears
Neck and shoulder aches
Popping in the joints
Clenching/ bruxing
Worn down teeth
Sensitive and sore teeth
Forward head posturing
Note: If you answered yes to any of these, you may be suffering from TMJ/TMD. Please fill out this complimentary Quick Screen Questionnaire and our office staff will get right back with you.
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What is TMJ or Neuromuscular Dentistry
Neuromuscular dentistry is a therapeutic approach to identifying, reconstructing, and maintaining the healthiest, least physiologically stressful dentition for a patients use in eating, speaking, and at rest. The philosophy of neuromuscular dentistry is grounded in the premise that the supporting structures of the teeth are not only the immediate bone of the jaws, but just as important, (and often overlooked in traditional dentistry,) the skeletal structures of the neck, shoulders, indeed, the entire skeleton, and the muscles which animate, stabilize, and anchor the bones. The belief is that to reconstruct and position teeth properly, the dentist needs to first determine the most balanced interrelation of muscles and skeleton, especially of the head, neck, and jaws. Teeth in the wrong position will create stresses which often create poor health for the patient.
TMJ and TMD Treatment Photos
Neuromuscular Evaluation
To evaluate the relative health of a patient's muscles of chewing, speaking, and jaw rest position, prior to dental reconstruction, the nerves innervating the muscles in question are studied to determine the level of activity within each particular muscle. This is done by electromyography to "listen to" each muscle's neural activity via computer graphing for analysis by Dr Ueckert.
To determine the best "set-up" for a patients muscle/bone matrix to support dentition, the muscle's nerves are sent signals allowing the muscles to obtain a relaxed state. The muscle's neural activity is monitored via electromyography, again for analysis by Dr Ueckert.
Upon obtaining this physiologically stable "rest" state, a three dimensional form registering this "rest" position will often be taken. This form will be used by Dr Ueckert, and the neuromuscular dental lab, when creating an orthotic appliance, and /or reconstructing the patient's dentition, to insure the new healthy balanced interrelation of muscles and skeleton will be maintained by properly shaped and positioned teeth.
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