Dr. Chris Hastings
After Dr. Chris Hastings completed his undergraduate studies in Marine Engineering at Texas A&M University, he served as an engineer with The United States Merchant Marine. He then earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, which is consistently rated one of the top dental schools in the country. Read More»
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TMJ Dentistry
What is Bioesthetic Dentistry?
Basically, bioesthetic dentistry revolves around helping patients with TMJ/TMD pain (Temporomandibular Disorder) find relief. Sometimes this jaw pain occurs as a result of worn-down teeth, while other times bite irregularities can cause discomfort. An improper bite can also cause nighttime grinding, resulting in more wear to teeth, as well as facial soreness and even headaches. A bad bite can decrease the esthetic appeal of your smile, too.
Bioesthetic dentistry focuses on the way your mouth and jaw should naturally be, and how they should function for your optimal health and comfort. Using nature as the treatment model helps Dr. Hastings to know how the teeth, jaw joints, and facial muscles are supposed to work together in harmony.
What Does a Bioesthetic Smile Look Like?
A bioesthetic smile has properly aligned teeth with the right shapes for each tooth to do its job, relaxed facial muscles, and good bite alignment. This kind of smile not only looks better, but it also functions correctly, helping your teeth and mouth to chew well. When these conditions do not exist, patients most often have what is called a bite dysfunction (or bite disharmony).
Signs of Bite Dysfunction:
- » Worn-down Teeth
- » Cracked or even Broken Teeth
- » Improper Bite Alignment (The way your teeth and jaws come together)
- » Shifts in Your Bite (Unnatural changes in feel &/or look)
- » Teeth Grinding, Especially at Night
- » Sore or Stiff Jaw & Facial Muscles
- » Trouble with Chewing
- » Loose Teeth (Also a sign of gum disease)
- » Receding Gumlines (Also a sign of gum disease)
- » Jaw Clicking or Popping (Common symptom)
If you currently suffer from one or more of these signs, chances are that there is a bite dysfunction happening. Dr. Hastings wants to help. Treating these problems as early as possible will help prevent irreversible damage to your teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Please call today (512-260-8330)!