What causes TMJ?
Do most people with a TMJD need surgery?
Will I have a TMJD for life once I am diagnosed?
Why are there not many Doctors that know about TMJ?
What does a splint do?
What happens after splint therapy?
Question: What causes TMJ?
Answer: TMJD (Disease) has two major causes:
1) Macro trauma – a blow to the head, face, or jaw can immediately or years after cause TMJD.
2) Micro trauma – bruxism (grinding) or clenching of teeth can either primarily cause TMJD or secondarily due to some underlying problem, like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Question: Do most people with a TMJD need surgery?
Answer: No, most TMJD cases can be treated with conservative treatments.
Question: Will I have a TMJD for life once I am diagnosed?
Answer: Depending on the type of diagnosis, for example, if you have disc displacement, treatment renders an adaptive response with a resolution of your symptoms, but leaves joints that are prone to re-injury. Therefore, we do yearly follow-up exams after treatment is completed to maintain joint health.
Question: Why are there not many Doctors that know about TMJ?
Answer: Advanced training is required to accurately diagnose and treat TMJD. Most dentists and physicians receive little if any training in this field. Inexperience or lack of education can cause a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Question: What does a splint do?
Answer: A splint is an orthopedic appliance, which repositions the ball (condyle) of the lower jaw allowing the disc area to heal.
Question: What happens after splint therapy?
Answer: Splint therapy is not permanent, so at its completion corrective measures are taken to maintain joint stability and prevent relapse.
