Dr. Curtis Westersund (dentist)

Dr. Curtis Westersund presented to us on the services provided by neuromuscular dentists. Neuromuscular dentists are trained in a specific form of assessment and treatment of dental dysfunction and occlusion (bite) issues. Improper tooth contact is a major problem that can cause muscles of the jaw, head and neck to function incorrectly, leading to tooth and jaw joint problems, along with head tilt and postural distortion.

Neuromuscular dentists use state-of-the-art technology to analyze a patient’s malocclusion and determine their optimal neuromuscular jaw position. The dentist uses computerized jaw tracking instruments to record jaw movement, resting position, and path of closure. Electromyography is used to measure both the muscle function of your jaw in its stressed and relaxed positions, as well as the jaw-to-skull relationship to assess structural imbalance. Sonography (sound graphing) is used to record jaw joint sounds to further assess any abnormalities. Additionally, x-rays of the jaw may be taken to help evaluate the condition and positioning of the joint.

Information reprinted in part from:
http://www.makemesmile.ca/
http://www.lviglobal.com/