Occlusion is the position of our teeth when our mouth is closed. Our teeth are one of the most sensitive structures in our body. Not only do we rely on our teeth for the common uses of chewing, smiling, and talking, but we also use them to reference how we position ourselves against gravity. 

Occlusion and Physical Therapy

Dentists will often recommend treatments to correct a patient's bite. However, it can be extremely difficult to correct the bite if the body underneath it is not in the correct position and does not move as it should. Vice versa, the bite also affects how the body moves. Physical therapy helps the body move functionally and efficiently without pain and dysfunction, and a physical therapist knowledgeable about the bite can develop an exercise program that is effective at coordinating the body's movement with the bite. 

Breathing is the body’s most fundamental function, and it influences every other bodily function we perform. While ideal breathing through an open airway doesn’t always occur due to our posture and habits, the body will adapt to make the airway as functional as possible. Because breathing drives our body’s positioning, it influences our posture, the alignment of our cranial bones and teeth, and ultimately how we move throughout daily life, work, and recreation. For this reason, we want our body to be in ideal alignment to support the most efficient breathing.

Attacking from Two Sides

A dentist will address the bite, tongue position, airway, and cranial bone position. 

A physical therapist will address the position of the body, posture, and how the neuromuscular system moves the body with all the activities that we do. The position of the airway is ultimately shaped by the postural alignment of the cervical and thoracic spine, ribs, shoulders, and head. Physical therapy can help to maximize the function of this system. 

A collaborative approach between a dentist and physical therapist can combine the strengths of both disciplines to support your body in functioning optimally. This team-based care can help reduce pain, improve movement, enhance sleep, and elevate your overall well-being—so you can get back to doing the activities you love.