EQUILIBRATION

What is Occlusal Equilibration?

Occlusal equilibration is a gentle, non-invasive dental procedure that aims to improve how your teeth come together (your bite), supporting better function of your teeth, jaw joints, and facial muscles.

Why Might It Be Needed?

Your bite may be uneven if your teeth don’t meet properly when you close your mouth. This can lead to:

· Discomfort in the jaw

· Clicking or locking of the jaw joints

· Overactive or tense jaw muscles

· Worn or sensitive teeth

· Headaches or neck aches

Hyperactive muscles means that the jaw muscles are working harder than they should. This can happen when the bite is imbalanced, causing the muscles to overcompensate and strain — even at rest or during sleep

What Are the Benefits?

By gently reshaping the biting surfaces of certain teeth, occlusal equilibration can help:

· Improve bite function and comfort

· Relax overworked muscles

· Reduce jaw joint strain and clicking

· Minimise headaches and facial tension

· Improve posture over time

· Support better quality of sleep

· Lower the risk of long-term joint issues

What to Expect – Step by Step

1. Initial Consultation & Diagnostic Records We begin by understanding your dental concerns, health history, and goals. We will update your dental records with:

· A digital scan of your teeth

· Dental photographs

· X-rays (if necessary)

This information is essential to create an accurate and personalised treatment plan.

2. Splint Therapy If you choose to proceed, we will create a night-time splint with an anterior platform. This appliance helps stabilise your bite and allows us to observe how your jaw behaves in a more relaxed position.

3. Occlusal Equilibration Appointment (~2 weeks later) At this visit, we will assess how your teeth meet and make small, precise adjustments to the biting surfaces to create a more balanced, harmonious relationship between your teeth, jaw joints, and muscles.

4. First Review (2 weeks later) We check in to see how you’re adapting to the changes, and provide any necessary refinements.

5. Final Review (6 weeks later) We assess the long-term improvements and confirm stability and comfort in your bite and muscles.

Important to Know

· Occlusal equilibration is a minimally invasive treatment. It involves conservative reshaping of the teeth — no drilling or restorative work unless clinically required.

· This process is designed to support long-term comfort and dental health by aligning your bite in the most natural and functional way possible.