Neuromuscular dentistry is a holistic approach to treating dental and jaw-related issues by focusing on the alignment and positioning of the jaw in relation to the muscles and nerves of the face, neck, and shoulders. Unlike traditional dentistry, which often concentrates solely on the teeth and gums, neuromuscular dentistry aims to create a balanced bite that can alleviate a wide range of symptoms, some of which might not be immediately associated with dental problems.
Patients who suffer from chronic headaches, neck and shoulder pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or even tingling in the fingers may find relief through neuromuscular dentistry. By addressing the underlying cause of these issues, our approach can significantly improve your quality of life.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) therapy is the first step in neuromuscular dentistry. This treatment involves the use of a TENS unit, which sends mild electrical pulses to the muscles of the jaw, neck, and shoulders. These pulses help to relax the muscles, allowing the jaw to settle into its optimal position naturally. This process is crucial for determining the ideal alignment of your jaw, which serves as the foundation for further treatment.
After the optimal jaw position is determined, an orthotic appliance may be created to maintain this position. This custom-made appliance is worn over the teeth and helps to keep the jaw aligned, preventing the muscles from reverting to their previous, strained positions. The orthotic is typically worn for several weeks or months, depending on the patient's specific needs, to ensure that the new alignment becomes a stable, long-term solution.
The final step in neuromuscular dentistry is often to rebuild the ideal vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO). The VDO refers to the vertical height of the face when the teeth are in contact. An improper VDO can contribute to a host of issues, including premature wear of the teeth, jaw pain, and even facial aesthetics. By adjusting the VDO to its optimal height, we can help eliminate these issues, providing a more harmonious balance between the teeth, muscles, and joints. This step may involve restorative dental procedures such as crowns, bridges, or veneers to achieve the desired result.
Patients often report a dramatic improvement in symptoms they didn’t even realize were connected to their bite, including reduced headaches, decreased muscle tension, and even relief from tingling in the fingers. Neuromuscular dentistry doesn’t just fix your teeth—it can change your life.