In the field of dentistry, the maintenance of proper bite alignment is crucial for the overall health and functionality of the oral cavity. Issues related to an abnormal bite, or malocclusion, can lead to a host of complications, such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), teeth grinding or bruxism, and even tooth loss. At Toronto Smile Design - Yorkville Dental, our lead practitioner Dr. Johnson employs a comprehensive approach towards patient care, addressing these issues with the innovative use of Kois Deprogrammers and Bite Splints.
Deprogramming the Bite: A Necessary Preemptive Step
Before any extensive dental procedures are conducted, it is of paramount importance to ensure that the patient's bite is correctly aligned. Deprogramming is a process that involves retraining the muscles and joints to close in a more naturally aligned position. This is where tools like the Kois Deprogrammer come in.
The Kois Deprogrammer:
The Kois Deprogrammer is a removable retainer-like device that patients wear to deprogram or 'reset' their bite. It works by disallowing the teeth from locking together, thus guiding the jaw into a relaxed, naturally balanced position over time. This intervention helps to eliminate habits that contribute to poor bite alignment, such as teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
Bite Splints: An Aid to Better Oral Health
Another important tool in our arsenal at Toronto Smile Design - Yorkville Dental is bite splints. Bite splints, also known as occlusal splints or night guards, are used to prevent the adverse effects of teeth grinding or bruxism, a common issue seen in patients with malocclusion. These devices create a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, thereby reducing stress on the jaw joints and protecting the teeth from premature wear and tear.
The use of bite splints can be a crucial step before carrying out any further dental procedures. They ensure that the bite is stable and in its optimal position, thus reducing the risk of complications and enhancing the effectiveness of subsequent treatments.
The Role of CEREC Technology in Comprehensive Dental Care
At Toronto Smile Design - Yorkville Dental, we don't compromise on the quality or precision of our dental solutions. We employ state-of-the-art CEREC technology to deliver precise, custom-fitted dental restorations. CEREC, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a cutting-edge technology that allows for the creation of dental restorations, such as crowns or veneers, within a single appointment. It involves taking digital impressions of the patient's mouth, which are then used to design the restoration in 3D modelling software. This digital model is sent to a milling machine that crafts the final product from a ceramic block, all within the confines of our dental lab.
This technology not only ensures precision in the making of restorations but also significantly reduces the time taken for the procedure, enhancing the overall patient experience.
At Toronto Smile Design - Yorkville Dental, we believe in the adage, 'prevention is better than cure.' Our dental care strategies, under the capable hands of Dr. Johnson, aim to proactively address and prevent dental complications, ensuring that our patients achieve optimal oral health. The utilization of devices such as the Kois Deprogrammer and bite splints, coupled with the precision of CEREC technology, allows us to provide comprehensive, effective, and efficient dental care for our patients in Toronto.
