What is Neuromuscular Dentistry?

Neuromuscular Dentistry (NMD) is all about the science of creating a harmonious relation among the muscles of mastication, the temporomandibular joint and the teeth so that neither compensation nor compromise happens in any of the above three constituents of the stomatognathic triad. NMD is the science of dentistry that embodies accepted scientific principles of anatomy, form and function, and patho-physiology. NMD implements the SCIENCE of electro-diagnostic measuring technology (such as scans, EMGS and CMS (jaw tracking) data in the dental practice). It focuses on an establishing an occlusion based on physiologic parameters between the cranio and mandibular structures that are innervated by the trigeminal system (the 5th cranial nerve).
NMD objectively evaluates the complex relationship between teeth, temporomandibular joints and the masticatory muscles in order to achieve an occlusion that is based on the optimal relationship between the mandible and the skull – Neuromuscular Occlusion.
The goal of the Neuromuscular Dentist is to relax the muscles controlling jaw position to establish a true physiological rest position upon which treatment considerations are based. It enables the dentist to practice more precisely keeping the general well-being of the patient in the mind.

Neuromuscular Occlusion: A Dynamic Concept
Dentists in every area of practice deal with occlusion daily. Commonly dentists do not practice with a specific working concept of occlusion. Dental schools traditionally teach static relationships between cusps and fossae and between mandibular condyles and temporomandibular joint fossae. In reality, dental occlusion is a dynamic phenomenon, which involves the teeth, the TMJ joints, the masticatory musculature, cervical spine, cervical musculature and the central nervous system. This latter concept was developed by Dr. Bernard Jankelson in the 1970’s, who coined the term neuromuscular dental occlusion. It incorporates relaxed masticatory musculature with maximum unencumbered intercuspation of the teeth. Dr. Jankelson was responsible for the creation of devices to relax masticatory muscles and to record and analyze mandibular movements, masticatory muscle function and TMJ joint sounds.

Since 1979, Dr. Marian-Vladimir Constantinescu, DDS, MSc, PhD, has begun to study, apply and disseminate the neuromuscular concept both in his clinical activity at the Bucharest Dental University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, as well as in the national and international congresses by presenting cases of neuromuscular dental treatment applied to edentulous patients or patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders.

See: Studies and Articles on NMD
The neuromuscular concepts are applicable in restorative dentistry when full occlusion is being created with complete dentures or full mouth crown and bridge restorations. It also can be involved in orthodontic, periodontic treatment, dental implants as well as in orthognathic surgery. Neuromuscular dental treatment has been shown to provide valuable, effective initial and long term treatment for patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders.

In summary, NMD is the science of occlusion encompassing not only the teeth, but the objective evaluation of the status and function of the jaw muscles and joints – before, during and after treatment – to achieve the optimal result. It is dentistry that focuses on body alignment, optimal mandibular function (quality) and accurate occlusion (quality) that results in optimal function and form (based on objective measurements).

If you have an interest in learning more about Neuromuscular Dentistry contact us today or view a list of courses in the EU countries and US.