What is Nueromuscular dentistry?

This is a good question to ask especially if you are contemplating dental procedures such as tooth reconstruction (cosmetic dentistry), dentures, or if you suffer from head and neck pain or other TMJ-like symptoms.

Traditional dentistry is based on the assumption that our present bite is best for you.   However, many people have a bite condition (deep bites, open bites, over bites etc.) that may contribute to muscle pain, worn teeth, recession, periodontal problems and even jaw pain. Nueromuscular   Dentistry takes into account the status and function of the muscles that control the jaw position, chewing and swallowing.

Using computerized equipment, Dr. Van Slate can measure and study the pattern of jaw opening and closing in three dimensions.   The computer can document the precise point at which your jaw is being held in relation to the upper teeth and can measure the activity of the key muscles that control the jaw.   We can determine with precision and predictability that position where the muscles, TMJ joint and teeth are in their most comfortable optimal place. This technique allows us to determine if your jaw position (bite) needs adjustment, or if it should be left alone.

The tests are "non-invasive".   There is no pain and no injections involved.   To do a Computerized Mandibular Scan (CMS), a tiny magnet is applied to your lower gum with sticky tape.   You then wear a lightweight headgear much as you would a pair of glasses.   Sensors on the headgear precisely follow the path of the magnet as you open and close you mouth.   Muscle activity is monitored during this procedure very similar to a heart electrocardiogram (EKG).   Thin wires are attached to the skin by adhesive patches.   Tiny electrical signals emitted by your muscles are detected and sent to the computer.

How do you relax the muscles to test them?

Because the muscles controlling the jaw are subconsciously "programmed" by the brain, most individuals have difficulty consciously reaching a truly relaxed state.   To help the muscles reach a relaxed state, a device called a MYOMONITOR is used to deliver gentle electrical stimulation to specific facial muscles.   This stimulation will allow your muscles to overcome their "programmed" position and go to a relaxed state.

How do you get the bite right?

Now that your muscles are relaxed and the optimal position of the joint and teeth is confirmed, Dr. Van Slate will place a fast setting putty-like material between your teeth.   Dr. Van Slate can them compare your usual bite position with the relaxed jaw bite position to evaluate if your jaw is at or near optimal position.   Based on these results, we can determine if any further treatment is needed.   Treatments may include adjustments to your bite, making a biteguard orthotic to help place your teeth and jaw at a more comfortable position; and in more severe bite problems, a reconstruction of the teeth may be needed to alter the bite more permanently.

Occlusal orthotics (biteguards, occlusal guards)

The orthotics are constructed using a durable clear resin-plastic.   Using the computer information as our guide, we can use the orthotic to precisely   support your muscles and joint at a more optimal position.   It is unlike biteguards that are made with impressions only.