Neuromuscular Dentistry

Thousands of people suffer from headaches and jaw pain on a daily basis. They often seek treatment from a physician, headache clinics, or chiropractors. Many are on multiple medications trying to control their pains and headaches. Most individuals do not realize that their bite and jaw muscles may play an important role in their problems.

Clenching and grinding of the teeth may lead to sore, tired jaw muscles. It is these sore muscles that may cause, or contribute to their jaw pains and headaches. Many people will hold their teeth together throughout the day, and then will clench and grind even harder while they are sleeping. This is why you may wake up in the morning with tired, stiff jaws, and a headache. This is often referred to as “TMJ.”There are two major schools of thought when it comes to treating bites and “TMJ.” Without getting technical, one school of thought is based on centric relation, and is taught at the Pankey Institute in Florida. The other school of thought is based on neuromuscular dentistry and is taught at the Las Vegas Institute.Dr. Luna has been fortunate to receive training in centric relation philosophy during his residency in Charleston, South Carolina and neuromuscular training at the Las Vegas Institute while in private practice. If you suffer from any of the symptoms of “TMJ,” Dr. Luna can discuss with you which treatment philosophy he believes would be in your best interest.

Full Mouth Reconstruction

Many people have personal habits, accidents, poor oral health, and poor dental care which has lead to the destruction of their teeth and bite. This can lead to poor esthetics, the inability to chew properly, and to severe headaches and jaw pain. Utilizing one of the philosophies discussed under the “TMJ” heading, Dr. Luna may be able to rebuild your bite back to its natural beauty, position, and strength.