Dental considerations of the craniosacral mechanism.

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the relationship between the osteopathic cranial concept and its dental considerations. The philosophy states that the brain and spinal cord, the cerebrospinal fluid, the cranial dural membranes, the cranial bones, and the sacrum move in a slight but perceptible physiologic cycle. The temporomandibular joint structures are an integral part of the craniosacral mechanism.Because of the direct relationship in health between physical structure and function, this craniosacral rhythm is critical to the well-being of the patient. The oral tissues must allow for complete freedom of motion in the craniosacral cycle. A restriction or distortion of this movement may contribute significantly to the patient's temporomandibular joint condition. It is rational to assume that dental appliance therapy, orthodontic tooth movement, occlusal equilibration, tooth extraction, and other common dental procedures should be predicated on the optimum function of this mechanism.