Southern California OBI Bioesthetic Dentist explains OBI Dental Treatment Part 2:
Posted July 24, 2011 in HomeAs discussed in my previous OBI blog, Bioesthetic dentistry involves the study of the aspects of an individuals chewing system to determine the best outcome for stability and function. Simply stated; the jaw joint, teeth, jaw bone, facial muscles, and teeth in proper alignment create an even chewing system. Having a stable chewing system will ensure teeth to last a lifetime free of trauma. This blog is dedicated to discussing how my Riverside OBI Biological Cosmetic Dental office studies and treats individuals who are wanting to improve their chewing system, alleviate migraines, and prevent further tooth wear from occurring.
OBI Dental Treatment Frequently Asked Questions:
How much time commitment is required?
Every individual is different. Just as it took time for bite imbalances or tooth wear to develop, it takes time to correct. Some individuals respond in several weeks and others take several months. Improving the smile and balance and eliminating or drastically reducing migraine headaches in a predictable manner is what our Riverside OBI Biological Cosmetic Dental office is all about.
What is involved in relaxing and stabilizing my jaw joints?
The first step is a complete analysis of the chewing system: the jaw joints, nerves, muscles, lips, tongue, mouth, face, and teeth alignment. Once this information is gathered through an examination, and series of X-rays, a upper jaw appliance is made. The upper jaw appliance called a “MAGO” is used for temporary bite correction, to relax the jaw joint and muscles, and to stabilize the jaw joint. This appliance is removable and made of clear hard plastic. The MAGO will also begin to alleviate headaches and put a stop to clenching and grinding of the teeth.
Part of the examination will include an occlusal analysis, where special measurements of your bite and its relation to the jaw joints are recorded. Molds of your teeth are also taken so that your bite can be analyzed and placed on a jaw simulator. This helps to determine what teeth are exactly involved and how the teeth can be “rebuilt” to provide stability and function. There are many times where orthodontics may be necessary to provide the best treatment, this is typically when there are skeletal imbalances and severely crooked teeth.
The esthetics of the teeth are determined once the correct bite balance is diagnosed. Which is the ideal alignment of the front teeth to protect the back teeth from jaw movements.
How many and what type of fillings and/or crowns will be placed in my mouth?
The amount of fillings or crowns solely depends on the amount of destruction present. Some cases require limited white composite filling to be placed for reshaping of teeth. Where other cases may require full mouth restoration to reverse the severity of the damage that has already taken place.
As you can see, treating the causes of tooth wear, headaches, cracked or broken teeth, and headaches/migraines will allow for a lifetime of jaw joint stability and harmony. Please stay tuned to Part 3 in my series on OBI dentistry where I discuss how TMJ issues can be resolved. If you are interested in creating a lifetime of function and stability for your chewing system please call to schedule a consultation at my friendly Southern California OBI Biological dental office. We are located in Riverside just off of the 91 freeway. (951)686-3666.