Neuromuscular dentistry differs from "traditional" dentistry in the emphasis that is placed upon the health of the jaw joints and the activity of the muscles that move the jaw.
Unlike neuromuscular dentistry, traditional dentistry uses the position of the jaw established when all the biting surfaces of the teeth come together as a reference point to restore teeth.
Neuromuscular dentistry recognizes the importance of having a balanced and stable jaw position before restoring teeth. It creates, stabilizes and maintains a harmonious relationship among the teeth, jaw joints, and head and neck muscles. The complex system of teeth, muscles and joints must function without stress, strain or tension. Stress causes fatigue and pain.
Over time, when teeth, joints and muscles are in conflict, resulting symptoms can occur:
The first goal of neuromuscular dentistry is to find the position of the jaw where the muscles are relaxed. This three dimensional position is often very different than the stressful position in which your teeth have held your jaw for many years.
With the principles and techniques of neuromuscular dentistry, we can help you achieve a more comfortable and healthier smile.
| Dear Dr. Sousa, I had an eighteen-year history of pain and discomfort in my jaw, head, neck and shoulder areas. I suffered from daily headaches, which became debilitating and had to take 4-6 Excedrin per day. Over the years I frequented ear, eye, nose and throat specialists, literally crying because of severe ear pain thinking that I must have an ear infection only to leave the doctor's office feeling frustrated and bewildered. Regrettably, I have resisted treatment from TMJ and went from chronic pain to acute pain. I could not have been more wrong! The way my bite came together was causing me all these conundrums. THANK YOU for solving my problem…in fact, I rarely have a headache and now there is no pesky ringing in my ear. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to you and your staff for educating me on the causes and solutions for TMJ. Since you corrected my bite I have a new lease on life. I don't have to plan my activities around pain anymore. Carol |
Dear Dr. Sousa, I was diagnosed with TMJ back in the early 90's, after I had 4 wisdom teeth removed. Back then, they just made you a "splint" and sent you on your way. By 2003, my pain was bad; my whole body was a muscle spasm. I went to his website and his credentials looked great. My MRI came back to show a damaged joint and my (TMJ) discs were out of alignment. My jaw was totally out of whack. I thought, "great so this is not all in my head and I am not going crazy"! Dr. Sousa's treatment plan gave me my "functionable life back again! My anxiety level decreased with the pain decreasing and I felt much happier. My job performance was better and I was on the road to recovery. Words cannot describe how thankful I am to you, Dr. Sousa for giving me back a "painfree" life. You are very knowledgable and up to date on TMJ disorder and treatment options and a great dentist. I highly recommend anyone who may think that TMJ is their problem to make an appointment with you to be evaluated. Debra |