Why do so many patients end up needing TM Joint surgeries and have stories of chronic ongoing pain for years.? What are the connections of head and neck posture to TMJ disorders?
The problem is that many doctors do not address all of the issues invlved in TMJ disorders which are always multifactorial.
The most common problem found in patients with TMJ patients is a lack of stability between the joints and the teeth during closure. Clicking upon opening is a sign that the condyle disc assembly is misplaced during closure and the click is the sound of disk recapture. Painless clicking is a warning sign of instability but it does not always mean the problem will continue to worsen. Over time joint instability can lead to lengthened ligaments and orthopedic joint changes.
Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction is also very common in TMJ patients and is usually the largest source of pain, especially dull achy pain, tension headaches and facial pain. This pain can also be referred to the teeth, the sinuses, the ears and other places.
When there is pain it is essential to diagnose the cause of pain and the underlying cause of the dysfuntion. Physiologic Dentistry is the Precision Personalized Approach to treating TMJ and occlusal disorders, Myofascial pain and primary and secondary headaches and migraines related to TMJ disorders.
The neck and head position is a crucial aspect of jaw function and both should be evaluated together. Many dentists who treat TMJ disorders utilize Trigger Point injections, occipital nerve blocks, prolotherapy and spray and stretch techniques in addition to utilizing Physical Therapy and/or chiropractic referrals to address the neck issues.
Patient are always better served by TMJ treaters who can utilize multiple techniques and understand complex bite issues.
Oral Surgeons are excellent when surgery is required but they are almost always the worst doctors to make TMJ appliances. First, they do not work with occlusion on a regular basis and rarely schedule the time to fine tune appliances. Effective treatment of TMJ disorders requires personalized precision adjustments of orthotics.care Many oral surgeons don’t really believe in appliance therapy but rather do it rather routinely prior to surgery.
Almost all patients can avoid surgery when a precision approach is taken early in their treatment. More important is that proper treatment can drastically improve your overall quality of life including better sleep, better moods and less anxiety,
Many patients experience long term or even lifetime relief.
Very often life changing improvement can happen in a single visit.
