In many dental clinics, specialists with an unusual name for us specialization – gnathologists. Often, the administrator, after listening to the patient's complaints and the question of which specialist is better to contact to solve the problem, recommends the gnatologist. As a rule, we are talking about incomprehensible pain in the jaw joint, an unpleasant crunch of the jaw, problems with chewing and articulation. Estet-portal.com tried to find out what is special about the specialty "gnathologist", how it differs from the usual dentist, and when you should contact this specialist directly.
What does a gnatologist do and what is his specialty
The term «gnatology» appeared at the beginning of the last century and meant "the science of the jaw." This is a section of dentistry that studies the work of the temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscles, the dependence of their coordinated work on the state of the dentition. In addition, the competence of the gnathologist includes:
• periodontal condition;
• biomechanics of the lower jaw;
• aesthetics and symmetry of the face;
• dentition ratio;
• dependence of high-quality dental prosthetics on the anatomical geometry of the skull.
A specialist gnatologist will be able to reasonably explain how the state of the spine is connected with the dento-jaw apparatus, how posture and bite are interconnected – and how to bring it all into proper balance.
Features of the work of a gnatologist and his interaction with a dentist
Dentists often have a fairly narrow specialization – quality dental care. Usually they have some knowledge in the field of gnathology, since the condition of the teeth largely depends on the work of the temporomandibular joint, on respiratory, chewing functions.
However, a gnatologist has more diagnostic options. At his disposal:
• computed tomography of the joint in different positions of the jaw;
• Condylography – study of the movement of elements of the temporomandibular joint; axiography – study of movements of the articular head along the surface of the base of the skull to calculate the angle of inclination of the planes of closure of the teeth;
• myography – study of the muscles of the face that are involved in the process of chewing.
A gnatologist studies the quality of the closure of the dentition, assesses the condition of the spine and the muscular system.
Sometimes aching pains in the jaw, which are aggravated by chewing, become unbearable. The patient is sure that this is a problem with the tooth, and comes to the dentist. But in fact, it turns out that the pain is due to a disease of the temporomandibular joint, which means it's time to make an appointment with a gnathologist.
When to seek help from a gnathologist
Of course, every dentist applies the knowledge of gnathology in his practice. They are needed to correctly place a filling, taking into account the bite, to form the correct shape of the tooth from special materials in the treatment of caries. However, in some cases, it is preferable to consult a narrower specialist – gnathologist.
He is referred to in the following cases:
• discomfort and pain when chewing, opening the mouth, closing teeth;
• a feeling of crunching, clicking when opening the mouth, noise in the temples when chewing;
• constant tension and pain in the muscles of the neck;
• pain in the jaw joint;
• impaired articulation;
• increased sensitivity in the area of any teeth;
• Increased abrasion of teeth and crowns.
Consultation of a gnatologist is useful for prosthetics and reprosthetics. This specialist will help calculate the even distribution of the load on the teeth when installing bridges, which will allow them to serve much longer and better.
Read also: What symptoms begin with neuritis of the facial nerve
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