What are MROs?
A removable splint that is used to help bring the lower jaw downward and forward. This helps create room to correct improper tongue position, increase oxygen intake, gives stability to those with bone loss or malocclusion, supports the TMJ and creates an improved neuromuscular balance.
The Effect
The MRO function by positioning the jaw for decompression of the TMJ disk. This will improve cranial function and can reduce headache frequency if not eliminate them. Effects of MROs are seen in mental, and endocrine balance that can aid in the body’s ability to detox. Aid in swallowing and tongue position, as well as balancing of the CO2/O2 breathing rhythm that will decrease anxiety and increased energy with increased oxygenation. Proper CO2/O2 (breathing) has a big impact on your sleep duration and quality. The use of MRO can have a dramatic change to your sleep, oxygenation to the body, BP, and overall relaxation to the musculature system and other related functions.
How Do MROs function?
MROs click onto the back or front of the teeth. When the MROs are on the back teeth, it creates a separation in the back that decreases the tendency towards grinding. When placed on the front teeth, it adds contact to the front where it was before missing. This established contact completes the communication chain within the cranial structures including the pineal, pituitary, as well as increased fluid movement that bathes the cerebrum. The MRO’s function can help with cranial fluid movement and prevent cranial structures from getting locked in place as well as the material of the MRO itself guide the tongue in an upwards proper position separating the teeth naturally. Depending on the oral structures one may be suggested over the other based on tongue position, airway, TMJ, and jaw relationship.
Muscle Work
Utilizing the muscle work we teach here will have a direct impact on your TMD therapy. Relaxing the muscles to allow them to be repositioned will create a more balanced transition and relaxed facial structures that can be seen in the facial expressions. See our YouTube videos.
Your bite and the change
As the neuromuscularture system is decompressed and TMJ disk placement is changed for ideal function; changes to the bite can occur. Adjustments will need to be made periodically if the bite needs to be adjusted or if the teeth are changed with dental work, and possibly new ones made at some point.
Are they removable?
Yes, and should be removed for cleaning. The material itself can stain and can be removed for eating and drinking in many of our TMD patients. Always follow doctors’ recommended use of MROs.
How do I clean them?
You should clean them whenever you are placing them in or out of the mouth. Ideally, go over with a brush to remove debris and bacteria. You can also use baking soda and water to clean them. The baking soda can also help lift surface stains.
Care of MROs
MROs are made with heat and are heat-sensitive. Leaving them in the car on a hot summer day or placing them in a cup of boiling water will allow the material to become pliable and change them so they need to be adjusted or re-made. Avoid heat when possible.
The longevity of the MROs depends on each person; they have been shown to last anywhere from 4 months to 5+ years. There is an additional cost for making a new set, typically it’s half of the initial cost. If they are not in the mouth they should have some amount of moisture present to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
