The Science Behind the PPM

PPM Science
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There is a significant amount of science behind the development and use of the PPM mouthguard. Advancements in the emerging discipline of neuromuscular dentistry have allowed dentists to modify and repurpose today’s medical treatment appliances for TMJ therapy to be used in the non-therapeutic recreational roles for sports and personal training.

The scientific principles which underlie the PPM mouthguard comprise a three-part equation: 1)- the unique anatomy of the jaw joint; 2)- the anatomical jaw-to-skull relationship; and 3)- the “neuromuscular component” - muscles which power movement and stability of the jaws, and how the nervous system controls all of the above.

When all parts of this equation are properly balanced, aligned and supported (i.e. when the jaw is properly braced beneath the base of the skull) then any physical activity which requires strength, endurance, balance, range-of-motion, coordination, speed and quick response is benefited.

The science behind this concept is both simple and complex; simple because in a common-sense way it describes how “body parts” work together physically and neurologically, and complex because it defines how the nervous system and muscles operate to support the functional demands of movement, reflex, and balance in the body. Knowing this science helps explain why the PPM provides a strategic athletic advantage to the user, and also why improperly positioned mouthguards (or not using a PPM) work against the body to degrade and compromise athletic performance.

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PPM History

Years ago it was noticed that when precision mouth appliances were utilized by Lake Placid Olympic bobsledders to control headaches and protect their jaws, that they not only had less headaches and neck pain, their athletic performance and racing times improved. Other patients using the mouthguards noticed decreased headaches and other symptoms as well as increased upper body strength.

Fast forward to today and we find the natural evolution of this science which now uses sophisticated sports mouthpieces to not only protect the teeth, but also to help brace the jaw in a more stable and powerful position. The PPM is the recreational application of jaw therapy principles traditionally used for treating TMJ (jaw joint) problems. This recreational device is one of the newest innovations in sports equipment aimed at both protecting the athlete and giving them a certain advantage because of its ability to improve balance, range-of-motion, endurance, and to increase strength and muscle power through proper neuromuscular bracing of the jaws and neck muscles.

PPM Description

When it comes to sports injuries, the face is the most vulnerable area of the body and is usually the least protected. According to Dr. Mimi Chao MD at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, up to 40% of all sports injuries involve the face and occur due to direct hits with a ball or player-to-player contact. Your appearance is important, and so I syour athletic performance.

The Pure Power Mouthguard (PPM) is one of the exciting new developments from the growing field of Neuromuscular Dentistry. This is the study of how nerves, muscles, and the supporting jaw structures of the mouth affect jaw alignment with the skull and body posture. Migraines, headaches, jaw joint problems, facial pain, and neck pain are common findings when there are misalignments’ and problems with the way the jaws fit together at the base of the skull.

Professional and amateur athletes alike around the world have discovered improved performance along with increased stamina, agility, strength, and balance. This is because the jaw joint and dental bite are important strength and balance points of body power. If either the jaw joint or dental bite are out of alignment, of if the jaws and neck muscles are not balanced properly, the body will compensate with weakness, muscle guarding and sensory distraction.

What can the PPM do for you? Imagine yourself driving a golf ball an additional 10 or 20 yards, cutting time from your best run, swimming an extra few laps, running or cycling with more strength and stamina, hitting the football line with more power, being quicker on the basketball court, or simply being more flexible in your workouts. The list goes on.

Athletes, trainers, and average people in the gym all report a more open airway with better oxygen exchange, better balance and coordination, quicker explosive speed and response, more power in their movements – all because they have a more comfortable stable and properly aligned jaw with the PPM. The Pure Power Mouthguard helps achieve this because it properly aligns the jaw and head, properly braces the muscles in the body and allows the muscles to have better muscle recruitment throughout the body.

This is what helps give you that extra bounce, a more solid and balanced golf swing, more reps at the gym, and a safer more protected athletic performance. Call Dr. Ostler’s office today to schedule a complimentary appointment to determine if you are a candidate for the PPM.