Neuromuscular Dentistry
“Neuromuscular” may sound big and scary, but neuromuscular dentistry is an important part of your overall oral health and function. Neuro- indicates having to do with nerves, and muscular, of course, indicates having to do with muscles. Dentistry refers to teeth. So, neuromuscular dentistry focuses on the entire oral system.
Balance in Your Oral System
Teeth, gums, jaw joints, jawbone, nerves, and associated muscles make up your oral system. All of these components must work in harmony for great oral health and high quality of life. One component of the oral system that does not work properly can throw the whole mouth out of balance. As neuromuscular dentists, Drs. Kuhn and Dr. Grimshaw provide truly comprehensive dentistry that will help you retain a strong mouth throughout life. Neuromuscular dentistry can help with TMJ disorder, headaches, teeth grinding, and other painful symptoms that stem from disharmony of the oral system.
Diagnosing TMJ Disorder
An attractive smile should look good and feel good. When teeth are in proper alignment, facial muscles and jaw joints function harmoniously. However, improperly aligned upper to lower teeth, or malocclusion, can contribute to facial pain, headaches, sore jaw joints, worn teeth as well as nighttime clenching and grinding.
Neuromuscular dentistry establishes the overall bite position at an accurate level, which promotes good health and improved well-being. Dr. David Kuhn, Dr. Mandy Kuhn Grimshaw, and Dr. Ritt Kuhn have mastered the intricate aspects that combine smile appeal with joint health, TMJ Disorder symptoms, and muscle relaxation. They each have specific training in diagnosis with the aid of computerized jaw movement monitoring and the latest repositioning appliances. We use a TENS unit to relax jaw muscles, then a K7 to precisely document the proper jaw position. This data is important in treating TMJ disorder.
Treating TMJ Disorder, Headaches, and Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
At Kuhn Dental Associates, your care will be overseen by doctors and staff who have completed advanced training in neuromuscular occlusion through the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Treatment may include wearing a custom-made appliance to reposition the jaw. This appliance can cause muscles to “reprogram” to proper position over time. In some cases, though, patients must wear their TMJ appliance for indefinitely. The doctors may also suggest exercises for stress relief, changing your oral habits (like no gum or ice chewing), or alternative therapy for optimal results. Your case is unique, and we will treat it as such. Our goal is your optimal oral comfort and function for high quality of life.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Many of our patients travel long distances to experience the one-on-one, personalized dentistry we provide. We invite you to call Kuhn Dental Associates today at 910-692-4450 or 800-682-4191. Our state-of-the-art dental office is located in Aberdeen, NC, and we serve patients from Southern Pines, Pinehurst, Fayetteville, Sanford, Laurinburg, Raeford, Rockingham, Hamlet as well as Moore County, Lee County, Hoke County and Richmond County.