WHY NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY?
Poor bite or malocclusion often causes the jaw muscles to be held in constant contraction, creating symptoms associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and can reduce the longevity of reconstructed cosmetic or implant cases as the patient struggles to find an optimal bite during opening and closing. Because the patient’s bite is of key importance in the success of every major dental procedure, establishing an optimal bite such that the teeth, the muscles and the joints function in harmony is of significant interest to treating dentists. This is based on the principles of a dental science that has been pioneered, developed and advanced by Myotronics since 1966 and has come to be known as Neuromuscular Dentistry (NMD). Today, the science of NMD is widely and increasingly accepted and practiced globally. To learn more about NMD click HERE.
MYOTRONICS AND NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY – PAST AND FUTURE
The history of Neuromuscular Dentistry began with the work of Dr. Bernard Jankelson in Seattle in the early 1950’s at the University of Washington. A successful prosthodontist, he questioned why cases that had been completed in textbook fashion often failed and undertook research in the mechanics of chewing and the impact of the muscles of mastication on occlusion. Dr. Jankelson’s research convinced him that failure to consider “occlusion” in major dental procedures prevented optimal treatment of the patient. His initial research findings were published in the April 1953 issue of JADA titled “The Physiology of the Stomatognathic System”.
In 1964, Dr. Jankelson hired an electronics engineer to develop an electrostimulator for the stimulation of the head and neck muscles. He soon discovered that inducing relaxation provided dramatic relief from head and neck pain. Using dental techniques to permanently reposition the bite, restoring normal function of tense muscles, markedly improved his treatment success. In 1966, Myotronics was founded and the J1 TENS, a ground-breaking device for muscle relaxation and the fabrication of therapeutic orthotics was introduced. Further research in the physiology of head and neck and occlusal function lead to the introduction of the K1 jaw tracking device in 1971.
As Dr. Jankelson continued his research and publication while actively practicing, the need for additional instrumentation became apparent. Fray Adib, BSEE, (See CV) joined Myotronics in 1978 and spearheaded the design and development of an integrated jaw tracking and electromyography (EMG) system for the evaluation and treatment of TMJ/TMD, orthodontics and full mouth reconstruction patients. This was one of the first applications of a microprocessor in a medical device.
The first personal computer based Jaw Tracking, EMG and Joint Vibration monitoring system was introduced by Myotronics in 1985. Developed and designed by Fray Adib, the K6 used the Apple II, the first personal computer introduced to the market. This system provided dentists the ability to make objective measurements and perform diagnostic procedures which were not previously possible.
Over the next 4 decades, together with the Myotronics engineering team, Fray Adib’s design and development of 6 generations of jaw tracking, electromyography and joint vibration monitoring devices (K5AR, K6/Apple, K6I, K7, K7 Black and K7x) and 3 generations of Dental TENS devices (J4, BNS-40 and J5) lead to the award of 3 patents (Patent numbers 4,342,086, 4,765,345, 8,630,713). See video of the evolution of Neuromuscular Dental Technologies.
In 1991, Fray Adib founded Noromed, Inc. an affiliate company of Myotronics. Noromed transformed Myotronics technologies for applications in the field of physical medicine, orthopedics and sports medicine. Currently, more than 10% of orthopedic surgeons in Germany use Noromed technologies for evaluation and treatment planning.
Myotronics latest technology, the K7x Evaluation System (11th generation of the K series) makes it possible, for the first time, to accurately record the dimensions and dynamics of the patient’s bite (occlusion), jaw movements in three dimensions as well as the posture/tilt of the head. Other technologies integrated in the K7x are electromyography (EMG) which monitors the function of muscles and Joint Vibration recorder that monitors the vibrations emanating from temporomandibular joints during opening and closing of the jaw.
Myotronics and Noromed technologies are currently used by thousands of clinicians in over 35 countries in a variety of dental and physical medicine applications. A trusted name in Continuing Education since 1966, Myotronics also offers a comprehensive CE program in TMD, Smile Design and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) that are attended by a growing number of clinicians worldwide.
The Future of Myotronics
As we look to the future, our commitment to innovation remains unwavering. We’re not just keeping pace with technological advancements; we’re setting the pace. Our latest K7x Evaluation System is a testament to this, offering unprecedented accuracy in recording patients’ bite dynamics and jaw movements. But it’s not just about the technology; it’s about what this technology can do for you and your patients. We’re constantly evolving to bring you the most advanced equipment and educational resources, empowering you to provide the best possible care. Thousands of clinicians currently use our technologies in over 35 countries, and we offer a comprehensive Continuing Education program that’s trusted worldwide. We’re not just a company; we’re a movement dedicated to advancing the field of Neuromuscular Dentistry and transforming lives in the process.
Join the Movement
Are you ready to elevate your dental practice and make a lasting impact on your patients’ lives? Myotronics offers you the opportunity to be part of a global movement in Neuromuscular Dentistry. With our state-of-the-art equipment and world-class educational resources, you’ll be empowered to diagnose and treat complex cases more effectively than ever before. Join the movement that’s setting new standards in dental care and transforming lives every day.
