- Neuromuscular Dentistry utilizes advanced scientifically recognized biomedical instrumentation to objectively measure known physiologic parameters of mandibular function.
- Neuromuscular Dentistry’s basic paradigms recognize that generic universal cellular, histo-chemical, musculosketal anatomic and physiologic principles are the key to understanding masticatory function/dysfunction. Neuromuscular principles are consistent with known scientific axioms of other medical disciplines.
- Neuromuscular Paradigm is based upon the principle that the biomechanics of occlusion follows known neurophysiologic (not necessarily mechanical) principles involving the temporomandibular joints, the teeth and the masticatory musculature.
- Neuromuscular Paradigm is based upon the principle that occlusal proprioceptive sensory information (tooth contacts) can affect many other musculoskeletal systems of the body. Conversely musculoskeletal dysfunction at other levels of the body can affect occlusion.
- Neuromuscular Dentistry’s clinical protocol understands the need to optimize joint and muscle function BEFORE altering or restoring the dental occlusion.
- Neuromuscular clinical objective is to restore the dental occlusion to a relationship that minimizes the need for muscle to accommodate and compensate in order to bring the teeth into an intercuspal position. Minimizing the need to accommodate to a non-optimal intercuspal position facilitates muscle relaxation.
- Neuromuscular Paradigm recognizes that the TEETH are the dominant component of the masticatory triad. MUSCLE and TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTS will ACCOMMODATE to whatever is required to close to the intercuspal position (habitual centric occlusion) during the act of swallowing. Swallowing occurs approximately 2000 times a day and cannot occur without bracing the mandible. This is accomplished by closing to the intercuspal position in order to create the muscle bracing needed for the forceful act of swallow. Some patients with malocclusions will brace during swallowing by intruding the tongue between the teeth to facilitate bracing. Note: Try swallowing without bracing your lower jaw.
- Neuromuscular Paradigm recognizes the Universal Principle of Pathophysiology. When the need for accommodation exceeds the adaptive capacity of muscles and joints, it results in pain and dysfunction of the effected structures. This is true at any level of the postural chain, not just the craniomandibular mechanism.
- Neuromuscular Dentistry is based upon restoration of the dental occlusion to a position (Myocentric defined by minimal muscle electrical activity of the mandibular posturing muscles (Rest Position of the Mandible) along an isotonic (minimal energy required) to bring the teeth into intercuspation (Myocentric). This is an objective, scientifically measurable function.
- Neuromuscular clinical protocols require reversible occlusal therapy until MEASURABLE PHYSIOLOGIC clinical parameters and patient response suggest a stable physiologic occlusal position has been established. The patient must be asymptomatic and stable for at least three months before Phase II final durable occlusal restoration is considered.
- Neuromuscular Principles recognize that deficient posterior occlusal support (POSTERIOR HYPO-OCCLUSION) is the most common occlusal finding in TMD patients. Restoration of the POSTERIOR occlusal support deficiency is initially accomplished with reversible oral appliance therapy (Phase I therapy). Phase II irreversible long term therapy is undertaken only after measuring the patient’s physiologic data and satisfactory subjective response indicating the patient is pain free and stable. This approach is entirely congruent with the American Dental Association-TMD Parameters of Care.