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Mandibular Freedom and Spontaneous Mandibular Migration (SMM)

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Neuromuscular Orthodontics
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Abstract

Spontaneous Mandibular Migration (SMM) serves as concrete evidence supporting the validity of the Neuromuscular Theory as a functional-oriented diagnostic methodology. The unique ability to anticipate a mandibular repositioning after the orthodontist has established the proper occlusion is one of the defining features of neuromuscular orthodontics. To initiate this process, the first crucial step is to establish Mandibular Freedom (MF) by removing any hindrances to migration, commonly referred to as “walls” in neuromuscular jargon. Several clinical examples are presented below to illustrate this concept in detail. Once MF is achieved, the mandible can then spontaneously migrate to its optimal position. This process is closely monitored by the orthodontist, who may use various diagnostic tools, such as electromyography (EMG) and computerized mandibular scanning, to track the mandible movement accurately.

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Savastano, F. (2023). Mandibular Freedom and Spontaneous Mandibular Migration (SMM). In: Neuromuscular Orthodontics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-41295-0_9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-41295-0_9

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-031-41294-3

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-031-41295-0

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