Occlusal adjustment for TMJ/TMD and Bruxism patients 

Do you wake up with aching jaws every morning? Do you ever bite and feel your jaw is lopsided? If that’s the case, you may require a treatment known as occlusal adjustment. Drs. Mircea Mitu and George D’Louhy of Family Dental Center in Manteca, California, are here to provide occlusal adjustment along with many other conditions that affect the smile.

Why is occlusal adjustment performed?

A bite is misaligned when there are loose, shifting, crowded, or missing teeth. The result is a perfectly and evenly distributed bite. That eliminates uneven pressure on one side of the mouth. After the bite is corrected, your teeth will fit together correctly. Occlusal adjustment causes little discomfort; in fact, it is almost painless! A dental drill with a fine filing stone is used to make the modification. After the actual change has been completed, removable mouthpieces are utilized to protect the tooth surface and relax jaw muscles.

Who is a good candidate for an occlusal adjustment?

Patients with loose or shifting teeth are frequently unable to get their upper and lower dental arch to meet correctly. Grinding or clenching teeth, often associated with a condition known as bruxism, create an uneven bite and pressure distribution in the mouth, which is also addressed by an occlusal adjustment. Clenching teeth and teeth grinding are the most common reason for occlusal adjustment. However, patients with conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder may also benefit. Occasionally, an occlusal change may help alleviate tooth sensitivity by relieving strain on the sensitive tooth.

How does the dentist prepare for an occlusal adjustment?

Precision tooth alignment is now possible thanks to new technology, allowing dentists to accurately pinpoint the areas needing attention. The dentists at Family Dental Center scan the mouth, recording hundreds of bite registrations per minute and noting even the tiniest variation. That data allows the dentist to make those modifications that are absolutely required, ensuring a well-aligned bite and reduced tooth wear.

How do I find out if I would benefit from occlusal adjustment?

The best way to find out more about this and other restorative services available at Family Dental Center in Manteca, CA, is by making an appointment with Drs. Mircea Mitu and George D’Louhy. Our practice is located at 521 East Center Street and can be reached by phone to schedule a visit at (209) 420-1205.

Dr. Mircea Mitu

Mircea Mitu DDS, FICOI

Dr. Mircea Mitu has almost three decades of dental experience, including nine years of associateship and managing clinical practices in the East Bay Area and several years of practice and academic positions in prosthodontics. Before setting up his practice, he completed hundreds of hours in postgraduate dentistry. He has attended prestigious organizations like the UCLA Center for Aesthetic Program and Misch International Implant Institute.

Dr. Mitu is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Joaquin County Dental Association and is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
Dr. George D’Louhy DDS, MS

George D’Louhy DDS, MS

Dr. George D’Louhy is a respected orthodontist who has been practicing for 30 years. Dr. D’Louhy earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from St. Louis University and completed further advanced training to receive his Speciality in Orthodontics MS degree from St. Louis University School of Orthodontics.

As a specialist in Orthodontics, Dr. D’Louhy applies his three decades of experience and his expertise using Full Banded Orthodontics and other treatments to help patients achieve stunning smiles. Dr. D’Louhy is trusted for his technical skills and ability to work with patients and their parents to create beautiful, healthy smiles.