Neuromuscular Dentistry
Whole-Mouth Health for a Comfortable Smile
Neuromuscular dentistry sounds complicated, and honestly, it's rather involved. It's the philosophy of dentistry that considers the entire oral system, including muscles, joints, and ligaments, when designing dental work that's comfortable, functional, and aesthetic. Dr. Solich studied neuromuscular dentistry at the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI).
Phase one of neuromuscular dentistry involves assessing your bite, or the way your top and bottom teeth fit together when your mouth is closed. A misaligned bite can throw the entire neuromuscular system off balance, resulting in headaches, migraines, muscle contractions, and TMJ disorder. As an LVI dentist, Dr. Solich checks each patient's bite, also called occlusion, during his or her regular dental exam.
Phase two of neuromuscular dentistry involves diagnosing the cause of a misaligned bite. Causes vary, but may be contributed to old dental work, teeth grinding, or TMJ disorder. The result of irritated jaw joints, TMJ disorder is common in our society. A patient with TMJ disorder may experience jaw pain, clicking, or popping, neck or back pain, and headaches or migraines.
Dr. Solich uses state-of-the-art technology to accurately diagnose TMJ disorder. Called a TENS unit, Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation, this device delivers low-frequency, electromagnetic impulses to the muscles in the mouth and jaw. The TENS unit overrides muscle contractions, allowing the jaw to rest comfortably. Next, Dr. Solich uses a K-7 to record the proper alignment of the jaw. The K-7 also measures the extent of damage to the joints.
Phase three of neuromuscular dentistry involves treatment. Many patients find relief from headaches, migraines, and muscle contractions with a custom oral appliance. Similar to an athletic mouthguard, a TMJ appliance fits comfortably inside the mouth. It works by repositioning the jaw into its ideal location. An oral appliance will also prevent teeth grinding, a common symptom of TMJ disorder. Other therapies include bite rebuilding with fillings or crowns, orthodontic treatment, muscle relaxation, and altering eating habits.
Discover the joy of an amazing smile! Call today to reserve your initial consultation. Dr. Solich serves Colorado Springs, Monument, Castle Rock, Pueblo, Denver, and the surrounding areas from his well-appointed Colorado Springs dental office.
If you’re considering neuromuscular dentistry in Colorado Springs, please call or e-mail us today to schedule your initial consultation.
Exceptional Smiles
5426 N. Academy Blvd, Suite 105
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
719.548.9393
Fax: (719)548-9313
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