Neuromuscular dentistry is a unique aspect of oral healthcare that focuses on the complex relationship between the teeth, jaws, and surrounding muscles. It is a highly beneficial approach to treating TMJ disorder (TMD)! But what are some of its specific clinical benefits and practical applications? This blog post provides some information that you may find interesting.
Clinical Benefits
In a clinical setting, neuromuscular dentistry has the potential to:
- Alleviate various types of chronic pain, including jaw pain, joint pain, headaches, migraines, and neck pain. It accomplishes this by restoring proper jaw alignment. In turn, this can promote head-to-toe musculoskeletal harmony.
- Improve the quality of your sleep. The devices used in neuromuscular dentistry can promote a healthy airway, which can help to address snoring and sleep apnea. High-quality sleep can reduce the risk of numerous medical problems, including heart attack, depression, and more.
- Support your long–term oral health. By reducing teeth grinding and clenching, neuromuscular dentistry can protect your teeth from premature wear and tear.
- Enhance your quality of life. Neuromuscular dentistry can make it easier for you to speak and chew.
Practical Applications
The above information may be interesting, but you might be wondering who exactly can enjoy those benefits? In what situations is neuromuscular dentistry used? Here are some examples:
- Neuromuscular dentistry is most commonly used in the treatment of TMJ disorder (TMD), which is a condition characterized by problems in the TMJ (jaw joint). While there are other approaches to TMD treatment that do not involve neuromuscular dentistry, it is the most comprehensive approach to care.
- For patients who require orthodontic treatment, neuromuscular dentistry can be used to ensure optimal alignment and stability of the upper and lower jaws.
- If you need full-mouth rehabilitation, neuromuscular dentistry can help to make sure that your restored teeth do not interfere with optimal functioning of your jaw and the surrounding muscles.
- If you are concerned about facial asymmetry, neuromuscular dentistry may be able to correct the issue.
Neuromuscular dentistry is truly amazing! It offers comprehensive yet conservative solutions to a range of oral and overall health issues.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Heng Lim of Life Smiles of Owasso is an expert in neuromuscular dentistry. In fact, he completed training in this aspect of his profession at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He is passionate about treating the underlying cause of patients’ problems so they can enjoy long-term benefits. To learn more about Dr. Lim and how our team may be able to serve you, contact our office at 918-274-3779.