Neuromuscular Based Dentistry
Restoring Neurological and Energetic function, improving full body balance, proprioception, and optimum muscle development
Teeth are foundational to the health and wellness of your horse. They affect more than just mastication. Teeth are actually neurological, and affect the biomechanics of the horses jaw and TMJ, along with the position of their head, neck, and mobility of the whole body because everything is connected.
Imbalances in the teeth of domestic horses caused from environment or incorrect dentistry can create chronic, excessive tension in the head. This tension cascades to the whole body, affecting movement, proprioception, and neuromuscular function. Any restriction to muscular or skeletal mobility disrupts neurological signal flow. When the TMJ cannot function properly, information on body posture that is sent to the brain is incorrect. Consider the major nerve junctions in the head and poll area. 12 pairs of Cranial Nerves, Trigeminal Nerve, Cervical Nerves, Vagus Nerve and more!
How is Neuromuscular Dentistry better for your horse?
With horses, I have learned that, sometimes less is more. Traditional floating methods focus on pathology and taking off rough and sharp spots. Often using power tools to get the job done faster, and taking off more tooth material than necessary.
The method I was trained in focuses on overall balance, including the incisors, and restoring anatomical alignment of the jaw, anterior/posterior motion and lateral translation. I use only hand instruments, making it possible to do very precise adjustments to the tooth surface. This method also allows me to work with the horse in a more anatomically correct position and without the need for equipment to hang the head and excess sedation as a result of having to restrain a fearful horse.
Working with the horse, making precise adjustments where they can immediately feel relief or a positive difference allows the horse to participate and often requires little to no sedation because the horse feels comfortable and safe. Click the link below to learn more about the Center for Neuromuscular Equine Dentistry, the school I attended, and gain more detailed information on the benefits of Neuromuscular based dentistry over traditional power floating.
Schedule an appointment
I travel all over the west, and it’s a good possibility that I could come to you. If I am not the closest practitioner to you, or don’t come to your area, I will be happy to put you in touch with one of my colleagues to find you a certified Neuromuscular Dentist near you. Please send me an email or give me a call so I can answer any questions you may have, and book your spot in my schedule.