Amongst all health care providers, there are varied treatment philosophies, with a wide spectrum of similarity or difference. Many have similar or different philosophies. This also applies to the practice of dentistry, and more importantly esthetic dentistry. The practice of complete dentistry involves treating every patient in with a foundation of four aspects. Jaw Joints, muscles, occlusion [the way your teeth meet when closing], and periodontal health. Our goal is to achieve harmony between all four aspects. These elements are important in achieving predictable, stable results for all patients.
The TMJ [Temporomandibular Joint] is similar to many of the other joints in our body. It is comprised of a bony portion, a disc, and supporting tissue. Many patients complain of some type of TMJ disorder. These symptoms may be described as “popping/clicking” and/or pain when one opens or closes. This noise is a result of the “disc” moving during normal movements of the lower jaw. Night time grinding or clenching may promote more symptoms associated with TMJ. This can vary depending on the circumstances. In rare instances, patients may experience “locking” of the lower jaw when opening. Unfortunately, when this occurs, one must seek professional dental help immediately. There are many treatment options for TMJ disorders. The key to the success of treatment is proper diagnosis. There are two groups of muscles associated with how the lower jaw functions. One is responsible for opening /closing, while the other is for lateral/forward movements. If any of these muscles become sore or tender to palpation, this can be an indication of a concern with the bite and/or a parafuctional problem [grinding/clenching]. Muscles need to be examined routinely to properly diagnose and prevent future concerns. When a patient presents with muscle pain, it is almost 80% related to the bite not being in line with the way the muscles function. A simple procedure called an equilibration [an adjustment which produces bite balance] can easily correct this problem, and generally, most patients feel extremely comfortable when leaving the office.
Occlusion refers to how your teeth fit together when fully closed. Generally, the muscles will move the lower jaw until all teeth come together. An unstable bite will show signs of tooth wear, tooth mobility, cracks, and discomfort. These patients will exhibit more wear on their front than on their back teeth, and this is an indication that the jaw joints, muscles and teeth are not working in harmony. When muscles and teeth fight, teeth always lose. In order to recommend appropriate treatment, diagnostic records are required. This involves taking impressions of upper and lower teeth, a bite record, measurements, and digital photos. This provides us with the valuable information of how a patient functions. By restoring teeth, we can regain the harmony needed to allow proper function and improve the esthetics to more natural appearance.
It is estimated that approximately 75% of the U.S. population has some form of periodontal disease or gum disease. This can range from having gingivitis [inflammation of the gum tissue] to advanced disease where more than 50% of bone loss has occurred. The latest literature supports a possible link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, and most physicians are asking their patients to have routine dental examinations to diagnose and treat this disease prior to any medical treatment [joint replacements, etc.]. It is our goal to educate all patients on their current periodontal health, and to make recommendations that will help support better oral health.
When one chooses to have any esthetic dentistry, it is important to make sure that the provider is highly trained not only in delivering the highest quality restorations, but understands how you function in relation to the four points of complete dentistry . This is important because any changes made to teeth will change the functioning element drastically. This change can have devastating results on the life of the restorations, and patient comfort. The most common result we see is failing restorations in the form of fractures, wear, and mobility.
It is our goal for all patients to have stable joints, muscles, and teeth. Any esthetic treatment completed should feel natural and comfortable functionally. For ideal esthetics teeth should be made to ideal proportions, and fit the facial musculature, especially the upper and lower lips. If you or someone you know would like to speak with us regarding any of the above concerns, please contact us by phone or visit our website. We thank you for taking the time to read this educational material and hope it has provided valuable information. Good health to all.
We are unconditionally committed to providing our patients with the Four Points of Complete Dentistry to achieve Optimal Dental Health. This is accomplished by attaining Harmony in Jaw Joints, Muscles, Supportive Tissues and Teeth in the most esthetically pleasing way. Khanna Dentistry is comprised of a team of dynamic professionals that is dedicated to education in the latest advances in Dentistry. We hold a genuine interest in the needs and concerns of each patient. We are dedicated to providing individualized care in a timely manner. We strive to create an atmosphere of trust, respect and privacy while building lasting relationships. Our caring team values impeccable quality, outstanding customer service and Team Solidarity.