Functional Dentistry

• The existence of an improper bite
• Switching sides while eating
• Missing one or more teeth
• Injury to the jaw

A variety of external factors can instigate TMJ disorders, including excessive tiredness, trauma to the jaw, stress-related jaw spasms, exposure to cold or wet conditions, habitual gum chewing or nail biting, playing specific musical instruments, snorkeling, or dealing with emotional trauma, among others.

Experiencing bruxism (teeth grinding) often comes with waking headaches, pain in the temporomandibular joint, and dental discomfort. Our dentists can provide a specially designed occlusal plate to prevent undesired wear and tear on your teeth or risks like dental fractures and cracks. This will help mitigate the strain on your teeth and ATM when you grind. Made of hard-wearing plastic and crafted from digital imprints of your teeth, this device will ensure your comfort and safeguard your teeth. It is designed to be worn while you sleep.

The length of treatment for bruxism can vary depending on the severity and underlying causes. In some cases, it may only require a few months of wearing an occlusal plate to alleviate symptoms and protect the teeth. However, ongoing treatment might be necessary for chronic or more severe cases.

In addition to using an occlusal plate, your dentist may recommend other methods, such as stress management techniques or physiotherapy exercises, to help address any contributing factors to your bruxism.

Yes, functional dentistry can be highly effective for treating TMJ disorders. Dr. Mirmooji uses advanced diagnostic techniques to assess the root causes of TMJ issues, such as misalignment or poor bite. Treatment options may include custom splints, physical therapy, or bite adjustments to relieve pain and improve jaw function. Functional dentistry aims to address the misalignments in your bite that may contribute to TMJ discomfort, reducing strain on the jaw and preventing further complications.

Functional dentistry takes a holistic approach, recognizing that oral health can significantly impact overall well-being. Misaligned teeth or jaw problems can contribute to headaches, neck pain, and digestive problems. Functional dentistry addresses these concerns to improve oral and systemic health. For example, improperly aligned teeth can cause difficulty in chewing, leading to digestive issues.

Yes, functional dentistry can benefit children, especially if they have early signs of bite problems, crooked teeth, or jaw discomfort. Early intervention can help prevent more significant issues later in life. Dr. Mirmooji works with children to ensure that their teeth and jaws develop properly, preventing future dental complications. Addressing functional issues in childhood can result in better oral health and fewer complex treatments in the future.

Functional dentistry is often involved in treating sleep apnea by addressing the alignment of the teeth and jaw. Dr. Mirmooji may use oral appliances that reposition the jaw to improve airflow during sleep. These devices are a noninvasive alternative to CPAP therapy and can significantly reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. Functional dentistry focuses on creating individualized solutions that address the root causes of sleep apnea, often offering patients more comfortable and effective treatments than traditional CPAP machines, particularly those with mild to moderate apnea.

Yes, functional dentistry can relieve chronic headaches and migraines, often related to jaw misalignment or poor bite. By correcting these issues with appropriate treatment, such as bite adjustments or custom oral devices, many patients experience a significant reduction in headache frequency and intensity. A misaligned bite can strain the jaw muscles, leading to tension headaches. 

The long-term benefits of functional dentistry include improved bite function, better jaw health, reduced pain, and a lower risk of future dental problems. By addressing underlying issues early on, functional dentistry can enhance overall quality of life and help maintain long-term oral and overall health. Patients who receive functional care often experience fewer problems with their teeth and jaw as they age.