Gneuromuscular vs. Neuromuscular Dentistry

GNEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY vs. NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY

The field of dentistry that applies the gnathologic principles with the neuromuscular science using objective measurements to record physiologic responses of the masticatory system (which includes the morphology, anatomy, physiology and patho-physiology of the cranio-mandibular cervical complex) is what is defined as gneuromuscular (GNM) dentistry. It acknowledges known multi-faceted musculoskeletal occlusal signs and symptoms and relates them to an “optimal” mandibular to cranial/ cervical relationship associated with body posture and alignment.

It acknowledges the entire masticatory system as it relates to mechanics of bordered movements relating to optimal disc and condylar positioning within the glenoid fossa as well as functional movements of the mandible and supporting musculature along an optimized isotonic trajectory which can be specifically located and identified for each patient. An optimal vertical rest position can be determined physiologically as a foundation up from which a stable terminal contact position of occlusion is established providing opportunity for the body to reach maximal dental improvement.

GNM when properly applied uses advanced diagnostics and neuromuscular instrumentation in addition to knowing how to address the more complex: 1) cervical dysfunction problems, 2) TMJ primary problems, 3) Class II division 2 type problems and 4) anterior open bite tendency problems.

It is a field of dentistry that bridges that gap between gnathologics and neuromuscular occlusal philosophies as advocated at OCCLUSION CONNECTIONS.

Gnathology:

A science dealing with the masticatory apparatus as a whole, including morphology, anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, and therapeutics.gnatholog´ic

a field of dental or medical study that deals with the entire chewing apparatus, including its anatomic, histologic, morphologic, physiologic, and pathologic characteristics. Diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative procedures result from these studies.

the study of the functional and occlusal relationships of the teeth; sometimes also used to identify a specific philosophy of occlusal function.

the science dealing with the masticatory apparatus as a whole.

Neuromuscular:

Is a dental treatment philosophy in which temporomandibular joints, masticatory muscles and central nervous system mechanisms are claimed to follow generic physiologic and anatomic laws applicable to all musculoskeletal systems. It is a treatment modality of dentistry that focuses on correcting “misalignment” of the jaw at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Neuromuscular dentistry acknowledges the multi-facted musculoskeletal occlusal signs and symptoms as they relate to postural problems involving the lower jaw and cervical region. Neuromuscular dentistry recognizes that “misalignment problem(s)” can be corrected by understanding the relationships of the tissues involved, which include muscles, teeth, temporomandibular joints, and nerves. In short, proponents of neuromuscular dentistry claim that it adds objective data and understanding to previous mechanical models of occlusion. The neuromucular approach is founded on the use of scientific instrumentation and methods.

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