NEUROMUSCULAR ORTHODONTICS

What Is Neuromuscular Orthodontics?

Neuromuscular or Orthopedic orthodontics is an option for Phase 2 (making the jaw healthy permanently) of our treatment for TMJ disorders. Placing the word Neuro-muscular or Orthopedic in front of the word Orthodontics means that we are not just straightening teeth, we are doing so much more! We are increasing the volume of air that goes down the throat, we are aligning the vertebrae in the neck to be in-line with the dental arches of the teeth, we are enabling patients to breathe more comfortably through their nose, we are making sure that your jaw joints do not click crack or pop and have sufficient space to open and close smoothly. How do we do all this you ask? Keep reading.

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Why Is Orthopedic Or Neuromuscular Orthodontics The Final Stage In Curing Or Ending TMJ?

Phase 2 TMJ therapy utilizing orthodontics can come into play. The goal is to maintain the correct position/bite without the continuing need for a Phase 1 TMJ orthotic device. Neuromuscular orthodontics can move the teeth to make this new found corrected position permanent!

Often this involves widening and bringing forward the upper and lower teeth arches that will actually grows bone 3 dimensionally in the upper jaw. This is upper arch development is usually accomplished with a fixed upper orthodontic appliance called a FAGGA. Again, the goal is to permanently move the teeth into the position that physiologically correct for your head and neck and posture.

The Controlled Arch System

Dr. Frey utilizes the Controlled Arch System to rehabilitate your mouth. By utilizing the Controlled Arch System, Dr. Frey can reposition your jaw in a physiologically balanced position, reducing pain and correcting your bite. The Controlled Arch Approach develops the jaw first and then moves the teeth to fit the jaw placement, rather than the reverse.

Open Bite Correction Before & After

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open bite correction b/a
open bite correction b/a
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Types Of Anterior Guided Growth Appliances

Also referred to as AGGA, the Anterior Guided Growth Appliance is used to correct damage done due to a misaligned jaw and a bad bite. There are two different types of anterior guided growth appliances: fixed (FAGGA) and removable (RAGGA). Both growth appliances meet the same goal, but the logistics are where they differ.

Fixed Anterior Guided Growth Appliance (FAGGA)

This growth appliance is the best treatment option for adults who suffer from sleep apnea, breathing issues, and most commonly, severe TMJ. FAGGA is able to open the airways by expanding the upper jaw, allowing for relief for breathing. FAGGA may also improve facial appearances as well.

Removable Anterior Guided Growth Appliance (RAGGA)

This growth appliance is best recommended for children who have yet to grow their full set of adult teeth. This appliance works much like a retainer, however instead of keeping the teeth in place, it expands the jaw similarly to a palate expander. This creates enough space in the mouth for the child’s adult teeth to erupt without overlap.

To see FAGGA results, view photo set below.

Candidates For Anterior Guided Growth Appliances

Of course the best way to know if you are a candidate for AGGA is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Frey. However, if you have experienced any of the following, you may be suited for an AGGA:

  • Struggled with sleep apnea
  • Discomfort while chewing
  • Jaw pain
  • Severe TMJ
  • Bad posture due to jaw alignment
  • Dissatisfaction with facial structure

How Neuromuscular Orthodontics Work

Neuromuscular Orthodontics Beverly Hills | TMJ Treatment Los Angeles
Neuromuscular Orthodontics Before and After Beverly Hills | LA

Neuromuscular Orthodontics Treatment Process

After Dr. Frey has located the patient’s most relaxed, natural jaw position through use sophisticated medical equipment, the job is to now make that position permanent, curtailing the need for the temporary orthotic device. This is what we call Phase 2 of our TMJ disorder treatment. Once you’re completely comfortable with your new bite, Dr. Frey may recommend either a restorative, cosmetic dental procedure or orthodontics to sustain the results of your TMJ treatment. If your teeth need to be moved to attain the proper bite alignment, orthodontics may be best for Phase 2.

The Dangers Of Orthodontics

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What Our Patients Have To Say

“I am so happy with my smile by Dr. Frey! His staff is warm and friendly and made me feel welcome and comfortable, I had the best cleaning of my life from the hygienist and the office is spotless.
Dr. Frey is easy to talk to and totally understood what I wanted. He explained my options and how the procedure would work. I had a few veneers from a mediocre dentist that were not holding up well. After meeting with Dr. Frey a few times, I decided to have him completely make over my smile with veneers on nearly all of my teeth. I also suffer from jaw tension and headaches, which Dr. Frey treated by adjusting my bite with restorative work. It was done in 2 4-hour procedures and I chose to ‘sleep’ through them. He works with an amazing nurse who administered the anesthesia.
I am thrilled with my results. My smile looks bright, healthy and natural and even my close friends couldn’t tell I got veneers. I never felt rushed or pressured and I know I made the right decision. Dr. Frey is artistic, talented and professional and I highly recommend him!”

-Tracy

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How Long Will I Need To Wear My Braces To Correct TMJ?

There is no set duration for your orthodontic treatment. This is unique to every patient and depends on the amount the teeth need to be moved to attain the proper alignment. We like to accomplish everything within 14-and 24 months. Each person is different so it will vary.

What Foods Can I Eat With Braces?

When braces are first placed and for a short time after each tightening, you may favor softer foods and liquids. Think soups, shakes, yogurt, eggs, and noodles. As comfort improves, you may return to a wider variety of foods.

General guidelines for eating with braces include:

  • No hard foods like tortilla chips and popcorn.
  • No sticky foods like taffy and caramel.
  • No tearing foods with your teeth, like French bread or bagels.
  • Eat small bites.
  • Limit carbonated beverages to one per week or avoid them altogether.
  • No corn on the cob.

Examples of foods you can eat with braces include:

  • Thin tortilla or potato chips (no restaurant style)
  • Soft bread and muffins
  • Soft, cooked chicken, ground beef, lunch meats
  • Pasta and rice
  • Cooked vegetables
  • Raw vegetables may be eaten if cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Fresh fruit

How Do I Clean My Braces?

It is crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene when wearing braces. This doesn’t have to be difficult.

  • Change your toothbrush. When you get your braces applied, you may have an easier time cleaning debris from the spaces around orthodontic brackets if you use an electric toothbrush. Some people use toothbrushes made specifically for people with braces, though this may not be necessary as long as you take your time when brushing your teeth.
  • When brushing with braces, you may need to practice to find the best slant that works for you. Be mindful about brushing the areas below the brackets and then above them, as well as brushing the brackets themselves. Then, move to the chewing surface and inside surfaces of the teeth. Toothbrushing may take a little more time when you’re wearing braces. We can demonstrate how to do this, as well as how to floss with braces. Because it may be difficult to floss around wires, some patients use a water irrigator to clean in between teeth.
  • Rinse and change your toothbrush. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush well to remove any particles that may be stuck. Also, change your toothbrush at least every three months.

Can Neuromuscular Orthodontics Permanently Relieve My TMJ Symptoms?

Orthopedic or Neuromuscular Orthodontic movement, will many times make the patient’s TMJ disorder symptoms resolve completely or diminish greatly. This is because the jaw muscles no longer need to work harder to maintain a stable jaw position.

What Happens After My Orthopedic Orthodontic Braces Are Taken Off?

Just as with teenage orthodontics, keeping the teeth in place after they have been moved is crucial to long-term neuromuscular orthodontic success. Because orthopedic orthodontics is a place that is in harmony with the muscles of the jaw, and the jaw joint, retainers are not needed long term.

How Much Does Neuromuscular Orthodontics Treatment Cost?

Treatment costs are determined by the length and complexity of each patient’s customized protocol. Our team reviews the factors that contribute to the overall cost of orthodontic treatment and can discuss financing options as needed to help make the investment into a healthier smile more manageable.

Why Choose David S. Frey D.D.S For Your Neuromuscular Orthodontics Treatment

Dr. Frey is in his third decade of providing reliable cosmetic and restorative dentistry in Beverly Hills. He also is licensed and has offices in New York and the UK and, across these offices, sees patients from all over the world. He is a graduate of the University of Pacific School of Dentistry and has completed extensive training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. His training and use of neuromuscular dentistry have enabled him to achieve unprecedented results in the treatment of TMJ. In addition to exemplary training, Dr. Frey provides care that focuses on creating a personal rapport with each patient.

Schedule A Consultation

If you are suffering from jaw pain then you might have TMJ but don’t worry, we’re here to help! Call (310) 276-4537 to schedule a consultation with Beverly Hills TMJ Dentist, Dr. Frey.

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