What to Expect From a Functional Dentist

Functional dentistry represents a holistic approach to dental care, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall bodily function. We prioritize understanding this intricate relationship to ensure comprehensive patient care. Unlike traditional dentistry, which often focuses solely on treating symptoms, functional dentistry aims to uncover and address the root causes of dental issues, thereby integrating oral health with general well-being to foster long-term health solutions.

We are proud to introduce Dr. Siama Muhammad, a distinguished practitioner in functional dentistry. Dr. Muhammad, a magna cum laude graduate from Boston University, brings over a decade of experience and a passion for the holistic aspects of oral health. Her approach goes beyond conventional dental care, focusing on the neuromuscular system to enhance overall health and wellness. Her commitment to functional dentistry is evidenced both by her extensive education and the adoption of advanced technologies and methodologies. Dr. Muhammad aims to provide care that improves the patient’s oral health as well as their overall quality of life.

Your first visit sets the stage for your holistic dental care journey and is designed to be thorough and patient-centered. The focus of the consultation is to make certain determinations regarding various aspects of your health and lifestyle in order to create a fully integrated treatment plan.

• Comprehensive Oral Examination: We begin with a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. This step is crucial for assessing the immediate state of your oral health.
• Neuromuscular Evaluation: The assessment includes evaluating your jaw and bite function as well as exploring any issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the overall neuromuscular system, both of which are essential components of functional dentistry.
• Medical History Review: A detailed discussion of your medical history helps us understand any underlying health conditions that could affect oral health and vice versa.
• Lifestyle and Dietary Assessment: Your diet and lifestyle habits are also explored, considering their significant impact on oral health. This includes discussions about nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, and other lifestyle factors.
• Symptom Exploration: Any symptoms you’re experiencing, whether unrelated to oral health or not, are considered. This holistic view helps identify potential connections between oral health and broader health issues.

During this visit, we will take the time to listen to your concerns and goals regarding your oral health and overall wellness. This comprehensive approach ensures that the subsequent personalized treatment plan improves your dental health while also enhancing your general well-being.

Following the in-depth assessment, we will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a carefully curated pathway to optimize oral and overall health.

The treatment plan may encompass a variety of strategies, from conventional dental procedures to more innovative approaches like neuromuscular treatments, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle adjustments. Each recommendation is made with the goal of not only improving your dental health but also enhancing your body’s overall function and quality of life.

By considering your health history, current symptoms, and long-term wellness goals, Dr. Muhammad guarantees a treatment plan is holistic, comprehensive, and aligned with your personal health journey.

We use specific, cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies to enhance our functional dentistry approach. Here’s how each tool contributes to our comprehensive care strategy:

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

This technology relaxes the jaw muscles, alleviates TMJ symptoms, and relieves facial pain. TENS helps identify the jaw’s optimal position, crucial for diagnosing and planning treatments related to bite alignment and neuromuscular issues.

DNA Appliance

Short for Daytime-Nighttime Appliance, this tool is revolutionary in orthodontic and dental restructuring. It works by gently expanding the dental arches and airway, promoting natural growth and alignment of the teeth and jaws. This appliance is particularly effective in treating sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and improving overall facial aesthetics.

Oralase

This low-level laser therapy is used for pain relief and accelerating the healing process in various dental treatments. Oralase therapy can effectively treat conditions like mouth ulcers, sore gums, and post-surgical discomfort, enhancing patient recovery and comfort.

Myoaligner Orthotics

These custom-made orthotic devices are designed to correct jaw alignment and improve bite function. Myoaligner Orthotics are used to treat TMJ disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), and other occlusal (bite) issues, helping alleviate pain and prevent long-term dental problems.

Following a thorough diagnostic evaluation, we provide a range of holistic treatment options designed to address oral and overall health concerns. The treatments emphasize minimally invasive techniques, preventive care, and the integration of oral health with whole-body wellness. Key treatment modalities include:

• Preventive Care: Regular cleanings to prevent decay and gum disease.
• Restorative Treatments: Using biocompatible materials to restore function and aesthetics while considering the body’s overall health.
• Orthodontics: Clear aligners like Invisalign focus on improving bite function and aesthetic alignment.
• Periodontal Therapy: Advanced care for gum disease, addressing the root cause and preventing the onset of other, systematically-related health issues.
• Sleep Apnea and Snoring Treatments: Using custom-fitted oral appliances or other interventions to provide solutions for sleep-disordered breathing, which can impact overall health.

Our team prioritizes patient education, ensuring individuals understand their oral health and treatment plans. Patients become empowered to actively participate in their care through clear explanations and tailored hygiene instructions. Our practice also provides ongoing resources to maintain engagement and promote informed health decisions, fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility for personal oral health.

We emphasize the importance of follow-up and continuous care in the journey toward optimal oral and overall health. Regular check-ups and maintenance visits are integral to the practice’s functional dentistry approach, as they bolster the likelihood that treatments results are effective and that health improvements are sustained over time. These sessions allow our team to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan, and provide ongoing support and advice, ensuring that each patient’s oral health remains on track.

Our practice offers more than just dental treatments. We provide a pathway to holistic health, integrating oral care with overall well-being. Our commitment to functional dentistry ensures that each patient receives personalized and comprehensive care that supports continued, long-term health benefits.

We invite you to experience the difference at Brooklyn Oak Dental Care. Join us on a journey to enhanced health and wellness. Contact us at (718) 369-2300 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more vibrant smile.