What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?
Oftentimes, the leading cause of TMJ disorders is simply a bad bite. When the jaw position is not optimal, the muscles, nerves, bones, and jaw cannot work together in harmony. When the balance is off, it can cause strain in certain areas which leads to TMJ disorders. The ultimate goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to help the jaw rest in an optimal position and allow each aspect of the mouth to work in harmony. Once our dentists restore harmony, the patient will notice a decrease in TMJ symptoms and improved quality of life.
Discovering the Ideal Bite with Cutting-Edge Technology
In our pursuit of offering the best TMJ treatment solutions, SoBe Dentist integrates the revolutionary K7 Evaluation System into our neuromuscular dentistry practice. This advanced diagnostic tool is pivotal for understanding and treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, enhancing our ability to diagnose and create highly personalized treatment plans.
The K7 System employs a trio of technologies—jaw tracking, electromyography, and joint sonography—all of which together provide a holistic view of your jaw’s functionality and anatomical status. Through jaw tracking, we observe your jaw movement in three dimensions, allowing us to pinpoint your optimal occlusal position. Electromyography offers a vital window into the activity of your masticatory muscles, allowing for the effective identification and treatment of TMJ disorders. Lastly, joint sonography gives insight into the TM joints’ health and aids in the precise adjustment of treatment plans.
This non-invasive and comprehensive approach ensures that we not only find the root cause of TMJ disorders but also tailor treatments to your unique condition, leading to more effective relief and a significant improvement in your quality of life.
Finding the Right Bite
After we’ve determined you can benefit from neuromuscular dentistry to manage TMJ symptoms, One of the first steps in your neuromuscular dentistry treatment is finding the ideal bite. To capture a complete picture of how your jaw works to open, close, or chem, we will use a series of dental technology. First, we will evaluate the bite to find high forces, premature contacts, and the interrelationship of the occlusal surfaces. We will use the K7 Evaluation System to create 3D jaw tracking and to measure and record mandibular functionality. Once we gather all the data we need, Dr. Escoto or Dr. Mantovani will plan your treatment.
Stabilizing the Bite
Once we know where your jaw currently rests and where it needs to rest, we need to reprogram the muscles in the jaw to rest in their optimal position. One of the ways we help achieve this is by using the TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation) unit. TENS helps retrain the muscles responsible for chewing, opening, and closing the mouth by eliminating any learned patterns that exist. It also expels toxins such as lactic acid that have built up in the muscles while providing a therapeutic massage. Once the muscles relax to their optimal position, we can then determine where your teeth should come together. To stabilize the bite, we will provide you with an orthotic appliance to wear per our recommendation.
Finals Steps
After stabilizing the bite, most patients enjoy a decrease of TMJ symptoms. However, the treatment is not over yet. Most patients will require a few other permanent adjustments to permanently stabilize the bite. These might include dental crowns or porcelain veneers to change the shape of teeth, or even orthodontic treatment to move teeth. It’s important to note that neuromuscular dentistry is highly effective but not a fast treatment plan. Achieving permanent results takes time but it’s well worth the effort in the end.
Reduce TMJ Pain with Neuromuscular Dentistry in Miami Beach
If you’re tired of suffering from TMJ pain and other symptoms such as frequent headaches, clicking and popping jaw, and ringing ears, you might benefit from neuromuscular dentistry. Contact SoBe Dentist to schedule a consultation with our neuromuscular dentists in Miami Beach. Please call (305) 535-2225 today to book an appointment.
