If you are experiencing difficulties with chewing or speaking or feel discomfort in your jaw, it might be due to issues with the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO). VDO Increase Therapy in Santa Clara, CA, offers a comprehensive approach to restoring the proper alignment and function of your jaw, helping address various dental concerns. Whether you suffer from worn-down teeth, TMJ disorders, or challenges with your bite, this therapy could provide the relief you need. A skilled dentist in Santa Clara, CA, can guide you through this treatment and improve your oral health.
What is the Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO)?
The vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) refers to the vertical height or space between the upper and lower jaws when your teeth come together in a natural, relaxed bite. This dimension plays a significant role in your oral function, affecting the way you chew, speak, and even breathe when your VDO is compromised, whether due to tooth loss, wear, or misalignment; it can lead to various issues, such as difficulty closing the mouth properly, discomfort in the jaw muscles, and even problems with digestion or speaking.
Restoring the correct VDO is essential for maintaining your mouth's overall health and function. VDO Increase Therapy in Santa Clara, CA, focuses on carefully adjusting this dimension, often through treatments and appliances designed to improve the fit and comfort of your bite.
How Does VDO Increase Therapy Work?
VDO Increase Therapy increases the vertical space between the upper and lower teeth. This can be accomplished through various techniques, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, that help restore or increase the height of the teeth. The goal is to reposition the jaw to its optimal position, reducing strain on the jaw muscles, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and the surrounding structures.
In many cases, VDO Increase Therapy involves a combination of treatments tailored to your unique needs. For instance, if tooth loss has contributed to a reduction in VDO, a dentist in Santa Clara, CA, may recommend dentures or dental implants to rebuild the lost height and restore proper function. If your bite is misaligned due to worn-down teeth, the dentist may use therapeutic techniques such as crowns or onlays to add height to the teeth and correct the overall VDO.
The therapist will often use detailed diagnostic tools such as X-rays, bite impressions, and other advanced imaging technology to assess your current vertical dimension and plan your most effective treatment. By carefully adjusting the VDO, the therapy aims to relieve discomfort, improve your ability to chew and speak and enhance the overall functionality of your mouth. Contact us to learn more.
Benefits of VDO Increase Therapy
There are several key benefits to undergoing VDO Increase Therapy in Santa Clara, CA, especially if you are experiencing difficulties related to your bite or jaw. Below are some of the most notable advantages:
Improved Jaw Function and Comfort
Restoring the correct VDO helps optimize your teeth and jaw alignment. This can relieve pressure and discomfort on the jaw muscles and TMJ, reducing symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and stiffness. Individuals with issues like TMJ disorders often find significant relief after undergoing VDO Increase Therapy.
Better Chewing and Speaking Ability
When the VDO is compromised, it can be difficult to chew food properly or speak clearly. By increasing the vertical dimension and improving the alignment of the teeth, VDO Increase Therapy helps restore the normal function of your bite, making it easier to chew and speak with comfort and precision.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance
In some cases, increasing the VDO can also enhance the aesthetic appearance of your smile. If you have worn-down teeth or a collapsed bite due to tooth loss or erosion, VDO Increase Therapy can help add height to your teeth, giving you a fuller and more youthful appearance.
Relief from Pain and Discomfort
For patients suffering from TMJ disorders or those experiencing pain caused by bite misalignment, restoring the correct VDO can help alleviate these symptoms. The adjustments made during VDO Increase Therapy help to balance the bite, reduce strain on the jaw muscles, and prevent further wear and tear on the teeth.
Long-Term Oral Health Benefits
By restoring the proper VDO, you address immediate concerns like discomfort and misalignment and protect your long-term oral health. Correcting the bite can prevent further wear on the teeth, improve overall function, and reduce the risk of additional dental issues.
How a Dentist in Santa Clara, CA Can Help
A Santa Clara, CA, dentist is essential in diagnosing and treating VDO-related issues. After a thorough examination, the dentist will assess your current bite and determine whether VDO Increase Therapy is appropriate for your needs. They will work with you to design a treatment plan that may include restorative dental work, the use of dental appliances, or other procedures to address any issues related to your bite.
In addition to VDO Increase Therapy, your dentist may recommend complementary treatments to enhance oral health. For example, patients who suffer from sleep apnea or snoring may benefit from Mandibular Advancement Appliance Therapy, which helps adjust the jaw position to improve airflow during sleep. This therapy can be particularly useful for individuals who have both VDO issues and sleep-disordered breathing.
Complementary Treatments: Mandibular Advancement Appliance Therapy
Mandibular Advancement Appliance Therapy is another noninvasive treatment option that your dentist can recommend to address jaw alignment issues, particularly in individuals suffering from sleep apnea or TMJ pain. The appliance works by gently advancing the lower jaw, which can help improve the airway and relieve pressure on the TMJ. Combined with VDO Increase Therapy, this treatment can provide comprehensive relief for various jaw and bite-related concerns.
Conclusion
VDO Increase Therapy in Santa Clara, CA, is an effective solution for patients dealing with bite misalignment, TMJ disorders, or tooth wear issues. By increasing the vertical dimension of occlusion, this therapy helps to restore proper function to the jaw, reduce pain and discomfort, and enhance overall oral health. Whether you suffer from a collapsed bite, difficulty chewing or speaking, or chronic jaw pain, a skilled dentist in Santa Clara, CA, can evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment for your needs. With personalized care and effective treatment options, you can enjoy better comfort and functionality, leading to a more confident and healthier smile.
To schedule an appointment with us, visit Well Being Dentistry at 3993 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95051. For bookings and consultations, call (408) 244-0590. Please visit our official website today to learn more about our various services.