The primary element which sets neuromuscular dentistry apart from traditional dentistry is that neuromuscular dentistry considers the nerves and muscles and the correct positioning of the jaw, whereas traditional dentistry focuses on just the teeth and joints.

The result is a more complete approach which can resolve painful conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders and provide more comfortable and longer lasting solutions to other dental needs such as dentures, crowns and smile makeovers.
The goal of Neuromuscular Dentistry is to allow your teeth, joints, muscles, and nerves all work together in harmony. When any part of this equation is overlooked painful conditions such as TMJ/TMD and serious dental problems can develop. Neuromuscular dentistry utilizes modern technology to precisely determine the optimal alignment of the stomatognathic system (the lower jaw, skull and neck).  

TECHNOLOGY UTILIZED IN DETERNIMING AN OPTIMAL NEUROMUSCULAR POSITION:

1· Electromyography:

Electromyography measures the electrical activity in the jaw muscles and the jaw-to-skull relationship. This determines muscle tension when the jaw is in motion and in a relaxed position.

2· Computerized 3-D Jaw Tracking:

This scan allows us to precisely tracks all motions of the jaw in 3 dimensions.  With this information we can see exactly what the jaw does and use this data to find a more optimal neuromuscular path of movement.  One that is stable and healthy for the entire body.   

3· Sonography :

Sonography records all of the sounds of the temperomandibular joint (TMJ) as it moves. Clicks, pops, scraping, and grinding all are sounds generated due to the misalignment of the teeth (malocclusion) .  This is another indication that the existing bite position is PATHOLOGIC.  A proper Neuromuscular bite position would be of benefit to help decrease issues caused by TMD.

3. Ultra Low Frequency TENS (TransEpiduralNerualStimulation):

This is the workhorse of Neuromuscular Dentistry.  The TENS unit allows us to stimulate the Trigeminal Nerve, the nerve that orchestrates the fine movements of jaw by the muscles of the head and neck used during chewing.   This unit allows us to override the voluntary closure pattern of the jaw.  The TENS unit overrides the muscle memory muscle control we have over the masticatory system and allow the muscles to move in an involuntary and optimal fashion.  This in turn allows us to identify a precise path of movement and closure that is NOT PATHOLOGIC. 

 

 

TMJ/TMD
The most life-changing effect of neuromuscular dentistry is its ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat TMJ/TMD. A misaligned jaw has far reaching ramifications that can present themselves as painful and debilitating symptoms which seem to have no relationship to dental problems. Many people become “wanderers” searching for an answer to their chronic pain problems and never finding relief.  Neurologists, ENT’s, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Pain Management Specialists, Oral Surgeons, Acupuncture Therapy, Massage and even Psychiatrists may be consulted to no avail. 
Some TMJ/TMD symptoms include:
· Headaches (often misdiagnosed as migraines)

· Shoulder, neck, or back pain

· Numbness in arms and fingers

· Facial pain

· Jaw pain

· Clicking or popping jaw

· Clenching or grinding teeth

· Ringing ears (tinnitus)

· Congested ears