Neuromuscular Dentistry
Do you have jaw pain, headaches, dizziness, migraines, or clenching of teeth? These symptoms may indicate TMJ disorder, which occurs from misalignment of the temporomandibular joint. When the TM joints are out of sync, muscle fatigue occurs and the nerves become irritated, which produces painful symptoms. As an LVI-dentist, Dr. Blickenstaff will evaluate your condition so that he can stop the TMJ disorder, prevent further damage, and remedy any underlying bite malfunction.
Many patients don't realize that muscles play an important role in dentistry. As a neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Blickenstaff focuses on finding your correct bite. Traditional dentistry assumes that your current bite, or occlusion, works fine for you, and this dental approach generally aims to return your bite to that position.
Neuromuscular dentistry takes into consideration the role of the muscles that control chewing, swallowing, and jaw position. We will locate your optimal bite position so that your whole chewing system functions properly. If necessary, Dr. Blickenstaff can perform a full mouth reconstruction to alleviate the problems associated with an incorrect bite.
Using computerized equipment, Dr. Blickenstaff measures and studies the pattern of your jaw opening and closing through its full range of motion. Rather than relying on your present jaw position as right for you, Dr. Blickenstaff uses the computer information, as well as his years as an LVI-dentist, to determine whether your jaw position should be left alone or adjusted to a better position.
Invest in your future. Call our Portland dental office and schedule a visit with Dr. Blickenstaff to discuss the benefits of neuromuscular dentistry, including TMJ therapy. Our LVI-dentist's office serves patients from Portland, Beaverton, Cedar Mill, and the surrounding areas.