What is Neuromuscular / Physiological Dentistry?

Profile illustration of head muscles inside a triangle labeled 'Muscles' (top), 'Joints' (left), and 'Teeth' (right), with the words 'Muscles + Joints + Teeth = Neuromuscular Dentistry' beneath the triangle.

Neuromuscular/Physiological dentistry is a scientifically grounded approach that evaluates the relationship between the teeth, jaw joints, and jaw muscles.

This method focuses on achieving harmony within these components to create a bite that aligns with the optimal physiological position of the lower jaw in relation to the skull. The goal is to determine the most relaxed and natural position for the jaw, enhancing both comfort and function. Using a systematic approach to assess tooth positioning and muscle activity,

Dr. Kaufman carefully considers the body’s interconnected systems and symptoms when evaluating issues related to the jaws and teeth.

Profile image of a man with superimposed medical illustrations showing head muscles and a detailed skull overlay.

Here’s how neuromuscular dentistry guides our holistic, balanced approach to lasting oral health.

At Kaufman Dental Associates, Dr. Marianna Kaufman’s neuromuscular approach to dentistry is especially beneficial for patients dealing with teeth grinding, jaw tension, or an imbalanced bite. By aligning the teeth, jaw joints, and muscles, neuromuscular dentistry helps to relieve pressure that often causes grinding. Through careful analysis, Dr. Kaufman identifies the most natural and relaxed position for the jaw, easing tension and creating a balanced bite that reduces wear on teeth and alleviates discomfort associated with grinding.

This approach is also essential for maintaining balance within the bite, as even one filling or crown that is slightly off can disrupt alignment. When a restoration does not fit precisely, it can create uneven pressure points, leading to jaw strain, increased grinding, and discomfort over time. Dr. Kaufman’s expertise ensures that each filling, crown, or dental restoration is crafted and positioned accurately, preserving harmony within the bite and reducing the likelihood of TMJ-related issues.

Choosing Dr. Kaufman means choosing a dentist who combines extensive neuromuscular training with a focus on long-term balance and overall health. Her comprehensive care approach goes beyond treating symptoms; she restores harmony within the bite, enhancing comfort and functionality. With attention to every detail, Dr. Kaufman helps her patients achieve and maintain a healthy, balanced smile that supports their well-being for years to come.

Physiological Approach to Treating TMJ

  • Medical illustration showing detailed anatomy of facial muscles.

    Science

    Neuromuscular dentistry is so much more than the treatment of teeth. This comprehensive style of care resolves long standing discomfort of the teeth, jaw, and muscles. The vast improvement in symptoms like migraines, fibromyalgia, and teeth grinding are just a few examples of how we improve the quality of life for so many of our patients. In addition to feeling more relaxed and comfortable with your bite, a physiological approach also produces a more attractive smile.

    Upon relaxation, the position of the lower jaw is typically lower and more forward than its original position. This translates into a more well defined jaw and the reduction of wrinkles around the mouth and eyes. Our patients appreciate these youthful improvements to the appearance of their entire smile, not just their teeth.

  • Dr. Marianna Kaufman using a neuromuscular BioPak system to analyze a patient’s facial muscles at Kaufman Dental Associates.

    Evaluation

    Your first visit involves a detailed history of symptoms and previous treatment. Dr. Kaufman will consider all factors which may be involved in contributing to your discomfort. Afterwards, a thorough evaluation of your jaw muscle activity will be completed using manual palpation and electromyography. A sophisticated computer called the Biopack, created by Bioresearch, allows Dr. Kaufman to identify concerns with each jaw muscle group. In doing so, she will determine a more comfortable and functional jaw position. A TENS unit will be utilized to relax the jaw muscles and to allow the jaw joints an opportunity to decompress.

  • Dental articulator with a mounted model, showcasing precise bite alignment and jaw function analysis

    Treatment

    Dr. Kaufman relies on her training and technology to guide your jaw into its most relaxed position. Using models of your teeth and a registration of your most relaxed jaw position, Dr Kaufman works closely with top neuromuscular laboratories to fabricate an orthotic to fit over your natural teeth. The purpose of this physiological orthotic is to retrain your jaw and your brain to a more relaxed bite - a process which takes several months of time. Once achieved, Dr. Kaufman will evaluate your symptoms and discuss treatment options to further stabilize your condition

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Treatment Results

  • Two close-up photos of a complete neuromuscular case: before treatment (top) showing misaligned teeth and after treatment (bottom) displaying a balanced, restored smile

    Patient Closeup Before

    This patient presented with what she described as “an uncomfortable smile”. She disliked the appearance of her teeth and complained about TMJ discomfort and headaches.

  • Close-up photos of a neuromuscular case: top image shows pre-treatment misalignment, bottom image reveals post-treatment with a balanced, healthy smile.

    Patient Closeup After

    Using TENS to relax her musculature and Biopack electromyography to ensure balanced and symmetrical muscle function we were able to restore her esthetics and create a comfortable bite which relieved tension around her entire face. We were able to successfully meet her esthetic and her functional goals.

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