Bite and Jaw Concerns
Bite Problems
A bite problem arises when the three parts of your chewing system - your teeth, jaw joint and chewing muscles - cannot function ideally because of the way your teeth fit together. Over time, the stress a bite problem puts on your chewing system may lead to muscle and jaw joint pain as well as headaches, ringing in your ears and worn, broken or loose teeth.
EQUILIBRATION
An equilibration is the very slight recontouring of the teeth to create a bite that is in balance with the chewing muscles and jaw joint, (Temporomandibular Joint, or “TMJ”). This exacting process is carried out by your dentist using a retainer-like appliance called a Kois Deprogrammer.
jaw and joint problems OR "TMJ"
A jaw joint problem arises when the temporomandibular joint, or “TMJ” connecting your lower jaw to the base of your skull becomes painful and is unable to function normally. People with jaw joint problems may not be able to open or close their mouths fully or chew hard, sticky foods. They may also experience painful clicking or popping when they attempt to open and close their mouth.
Deprogrammer
The Kois Deprogrammer is a removable retainer-like appliance which allows your dentist to evaluate the stability of your bite. Every time you chew or swallow, you must adapt your jaw to the best fit for your teeth. If this fit is not ideal for your jaw joint and muscles, you will be at higher risk for experiencing facial pain as well as worn, broken or loose teeth. The Kois Deprogrammer removes the influence of your teeth from your chewing system by preventing them from interlocking and reinforcing the position of your existing bite. This allows your lower jaw to relax into a more comfortable position. Once your lower jaw has fully relaxed, your dentist will be able to provide you with treatment options for maintaining your bite in this new, more comfortable position.
Night Time Tooth Grinding
Night time tooth grinding is a sleep disorder also known as “sleep bruxism” that effects up to 8% of adults. It occurs much more frequently in children, but most will grow out of it by age twelve. Adults that grind their teeth at night may awake with headaches, sore jaw joints, sore jaw muscles or chipped and worn teeth. Occasionally there are no symptoms, but the noise of your teeth grinding may disrupt your sleep, as well as the sleep of family members.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment manages growth and correction of dental and facial structures. Orthodontics is commonly used in the treatment of bite problems, including abnormal tooth wear, TMJ problems and smile esthetics. Treatment is aimed at changing the position of the teeth.