Gnathology

Gnathology is an interdisciplinary clinical direction in medicine, which provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of problems arising at the interface of dentistry and maxillofacial region, namely the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the temporomandibular joint, facial and masticatory muscles, as well as dental problems associated with malocclusion and complex dentures.

Modern dentistry, based on vast practical experience, continues to be continuously updated with new knowledge and technologies, thanks to which the treatment of toothache, from an unpleasant procedure, has turned into an understandable and no longer frightening algorithm of actions. However, it happens that, instead of removing the aching nerve, the doctor refers you to a gnathologist.

Our body is designed in such a way that pain signals from some organs can indicate problems in other organs. This rule also applies to the human dento-mandibular system. It is the gnathologist who studies the complex interaction of all elements of the patient’s maxillofacial department.

For the first time, the scientific study and systematization of this problem, specialists were engaged in the 20s of the last century. At present, gnathology has developed into an independent section of dentistry, with its own specifics of diagnosis and treatment protocols. The starting point in the diagnosis of gnathologic diseases is the condition of the temporomandibular joint. Its health largely determines the symmetry of the face, the quality of chewing food and the general emotional mood. It is the only joint in the body that works in six planes. The basic knowledge of gnathology is also applied in ordinary dental practice. Thus, the doctor gives the restored tooth the correct anatomical shape – is an element of gnathology.

But, in more complex cases, the help of a specialized specialist is required. Gnathological diseases are most often diagnosed with the participation of doctors of related specialties – orthopedist, orthodontist and neurologist. Discomfort when chewing and opening the mouth, articulation disorders, neck and head pain and other such symptoms signal the need to visit a gnathologist.

What symptoms are worth making an appointment for counseling?

Examination and analysis of possible problems is required when the following symptoms are present:

• Toothache despite healthy teeth
• Headache
• migraine
• Ringing in the ears
• Tension in the shoulder muscles
• Pain in the jaw
• TMJ osteoarthritis
• Cracks in the jaw
• Tooth grinding

If these signs are present, it often signals TMJ dysfunction. This means that there is a malfunction between the skull and the lower jaw, which is the movable part of the jaw. Not all signs need to be present. In the case of tinnitus with an unclear cause, it is recommended to make an appointment for a a consultation to the dentist.

A consultation can also be helpful if the patient does not have any problems, but the dentist sees signs that something is wrong with the jaw. In this case, the consultation is preventative in nature. Nevertheless, therapy must be continued afterwards to avoid the development of indirect damage. Possible causes are inserted bridges, crowns or dentures. However, these symptoms are also sufficient reason for a functional analysis, as this often leads to incorrect loads on the temporomandibular joint, which in the long term lead to further symptoms.

Jaw and bite correction

Jaw gnathology not only corrects malocclusion of teeth and facial asymmetry, but also addresses several problems resulting from these pathologies:

• Restoration of full masticatory function;
• Addressing breathing, speech or sleep problems;
• Reducing premature excessive tooth wear and maintaining beautiful teeth
• Relieves pain associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

CitySmile Clinic has experienced specialists who are always ready to provide comprehensive treatment of hidden maxillofacial problems of their patients, returning their lives to the usual comfort and a radiant smile.