GNM Dentistry: Beyond Neuromuscular Dentistry
If you are experiencing jaw pain, clicking or locking, headaches, facial pain, clenching, ear symptoms, neck tension, or a bite that simply does not feel right, the problem may involve far more than the teeth alone. You need a TMJ specialist that completely understands the relationship between jaw joints, muscles, teeth and the bite.
Gnathological Neuromuscular Dentistry (GNM) is an advanced level of TMJ care practiced by only a select group of dentists worldwide and Dr. Solomon is proud to be a member of this highly specialized group. GNM not only finds the optimal physiologic bite position, it also helps provide overall body structural and functional stability.
What Is GNM Dentistry?
Dr. Sid Solomon approaches TMJ and TMD treatment through Gnathological Neuromuscular Dentistry, or GNM, an advanced approach that evaluates how the jaw joints, muscles, teeth, and bite function together.
GNM stands for Gnathological Neuromuscular Dentistry. It combines two important areas of dentistry.
Gnathology examines the mechanics and movement of the jaw, temporomandibular joints, teeth, and bite.
Neuromuscular dentistry evaluates how the muscles and nervous system influence jaw position and function.
GNM brings these disciplines together and uses objective physiologic measurements to better understand how the entire chewing system is functioning.
Rather than simply asking, "Where do your teeth currently come together?", GNM asks, "Where can the jaw, muscles, joints, and bite function together most physiologically?"
Why Does This Matter for TMJ Patients?
A patient can have teeth that appear to fit together normally and still experience a range of symptoms.
For some patients, these symptoms may involve more than the TM joint alone. Dr. Solomon evaluates the relationship between the TM joints, jaw position, muscles, movement, and dental occlusion to determine whether dysfunction within that system may be contributing to the patient's symptoms.
Symptoms Patients Describe
Objective Measurement Instead of Guesswork
GNM dentistry places significant emphasis on objective information. Depending on the individual case, Dr. Solomon may incorporate advanced diagnostic technology.
These measurements are combined with the clinical examination, bite evaluation, medical and dental history, symptoms, and Dr. Solomon's clinical experience. Technology does not replace clinical judgment. It gives the doctor additional information with which to make more informed decisions.
The Diagnostics Dr. Solomon May Use
More Than a Conventional Night Guard
A traditional night guard is generally designed to protect the teeth from the forces of clenching and grinding. A GNM orthotic has a different objective.
When appropriate, Dr. Solomon uses a custom-designed orthosis to support the jaw in a carefully determined position based on the patient's individual physiology and diagnostic findings. The appliance is then meticulously adjusted as the muscles and bite respond. This is why follow-up care is such an important part of Dr. Solomon's approach.
Individualized TMJ Treatment
There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every person with TMD. Dr. Solomon evaluates each patient individually before recommending care.
Treatment may be appropriate for patients experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, TMJ clicking, jaw locking, facial pain, headaches, migraines, bruxism, clenching, limited mouth opening, neck tension, bite problems, or persistent symptoms despite previous treatment.
The goal is first to understand the underlying functional relationship before determining the appropriate treatment plan.
Dr. Solomon's GNM Philosophy
Dr. Solomon believes that complex TMJ problems deserve more than a brief examination and a generic appliance. He intentionally spends considerable time with each patient, combining GNM principles, objective measurement, advanced technology, clinical experience, customized treatment, and careful follow-up.
Most importantly, he listens.
For patients who have struggled with TMJ symptoms for months or years, understanding the complete picture can be the first important step toward determining what treatment may be appropriate.
Learn More About GNM
Dr. Solomon's GNM training and philosophy are closely aligned with the advanced principles taught through Occlusion Connections, the Center for Gneuromuscular Dentistry and Orthopedic Advancement founded by the highly esteemed Dr. Clayton Chan, the one and only father of modern TMJ.
Searching for a TMJ Specialist in Los Angeles?
If you are experiencing persistent TMJ pain, jaw clicking, locking, headaches, facial pain, teeth grinding, muscle tension, or bite problems, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine whether your symptoms may be related to dysfunction of the jaw, muscles, joints, and bite.
Schedule a TMJ Consultation and GNM Evaluation
Don't simply treat where it hurts. Understand why the system may not be functioning properly.
