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Phase I – Achieving pain relief and getting comfortable
Diagnosis
A number of sophisticated instruments are used to locate the position of the jaws when the joints, teeth and muscles operate in harmony.
Computerized technology measures your muscles in function and at rest in order to identify the imbalance of the jaws and muscles.
The neuromuscular dentist will then be able to locate that relationship of the jaws which is physiologically balanced, stable and comfortable. It is this relationship upon which all further treatment is keyed. (A detailed description of the technical devices used in diagnosis and treatment is located in the Medical Professional section of this website.)
Relieve muscle spasm and pain and stabilize the bite
Once we have verified the comfortable position of the lower
jaw, we fabricate an orthotic that allows the jaw to close to this ideal position. An orthotic is a temporary plastic appliance upon which the neuromuscular dentist will make adjustments without changing the
teeth. This will stabilize the bite and will relieve the symptoms of pain and discomfort.
The orthotic is worn for several months during which time the muscles and joints will heal and the patient will experience improvement.
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