Neuromuscular Orthodontics

Orthodontics involves the science and art of straightening teeth. But did you know your bite, or occlusion, is very important and can affect your health in many ways?

Until recently, most dentistry based your bite wherever it was found, and most dental treatments are still planned from the existing bite. Because our body system is often adaptable to less than ideal circumstances, many of these procedures can have acceptable results. However, there are also many times - even with “textbook” accuracy - that results aren’t fully functional and comfortable.

Neuromuscular orthodontics goes beyond your habitual bite. Neuromuscular orthodontics considers the entire system that controls the positioning and function of your jaw – the teeth, muscles and joints -resulting in jaw position that is called “neuromuscular occlusion.” A variety of muscles impact orthodontic treatment including the cheeks and the tongue . Your orthodontist will make sure you can breath freely through your nose. If you cannot breath through your nose, often your tongue will produce harmful forces to your occlusion.In some cases the orthodontic treatment itself may resolve the airway problem, or you may need to see an ear nose and throat specialist for treatment.

Neuromuscular orthodontists will use all the traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, they will assess the powerful muscles moving the teeth. Consequently, the neuromuscular orthodontist will determine the states of the muscles, teeth and joints to develop a fully balanced treatment plan; ideally arriving at a smile and bite that is not only aesthetically beautiful but neutral neuromuscularly. You’ll not only look fabulous but will feel fabulous and your teeth will be less likely to relapse. At Dr. JAW Orthodontists let the specialists in orthodontics find the right bite for you!

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