To better understand Neuromuscular Dentistry and the benefits please see the "Solving Your Pain Puzzle" video presentation at the end of this section.

Traditional dentistry is based on mechanical concepts that assume that your present bite (occlusion) is best for you. Such dental treatment generally aims to restore your bite to that position- what might be called two-dimensional dentistry. Neuromuscular dentistry takes into consideration a third dimension - the status and function of the muscles that control jaw position, chewing and swallowing. Using computerized equipment, we can measure and study full range jaw movements in three dimensions. Using the computer, we 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 - both in function and at rest. This test data is used to determine if your jaw can be placed in a more optimal position to relieve muscle tension and pain.

Neuromuscular Testing
The tests are non-invasive, there are no injections, and there is no pain. To do a Computerized Mandibular Scan (CMS), a tiny magnet is applied to your lower gum with tape. Lightweight headgear equipped with sensors follows the path of the magnets as you open and close your mouth. The sensor data is converted in three-dimensional information.

Muscle activity is monitored with Surface Electromyography (SEMG). Adhesive electrodes are used to transmit the electrical signals emitted by your muscles to a computer. In addition to the CMS and SEMG, we study the sounds of your jaw joints. Electrosonography (ESG) uses a headset that holds microphone-like sensors over each jaw joint to detect joint sound vibrations.

Because the muscles controlling the jaw are subconsciously "programmed" by the brain, most individuals have difficulty consciously reaching a truly relaxed state. To help your muscles reach this relaxed state, a medical device called the Myomonitor (TENS treatment) is used to deliver gentle electrical stimulation to your muscles. This mild electrical stimulation is delivered through adhesive patch electrodes attached over nerves that control specific facial muscle groups. This stimulus will cause your facial and jaw muscles to twitch or pulse once every one and one half seconds. After about 40-60 minutes, this electrically induced "exercise" will allow your muscles to overcome their programming and go to a relaxed state. At this point we use a very sophisticated jaw tracking computer (KSI) that determines within 1/10 of a millimeter the optimal positioning of your occlusion. To stabilize this position we use highly effective orthotic therapy. This therapy is far superior to traditional splint therapy, which sought to establish the correct bite by means of an artificially manipulative positioning instead of bringing the jaw and surrounding muscles into a harmonious balance. No drugs, no surgery - only relief

"When you can not measure, it's an opinion When you can measure it's a fact."

- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Benjamin Cardozo