A TMJ splint is not always constructed the same way by different dentists. Different dentists approach TMJ treatment in many different ways. Regardless of the philosophy, the new bite should be in the best position for the jaw joints so that most or all of the patient's symptoms disappear. The patient should be the one happy with the new bite, not just the dentist. This is very important.

          A TMJ splint creates a new bite in plastic. The word splint is really not a good word for a dental TMJ appliance. A splint holds things together and doesn't let them move. Some patients are happy wearing their appliance all the time and are not interested in permanently changing their bites. However, some patients do want their bites changed to their ideal positions. The method of doing this also differs from patient to patient from TMJ orthodontics to full mouth reconstruction.

          A successful TMJ splint is used as a guide in the reconstruction of patients who want their bites changed permanently. Before reconstructing the entire mouth into this new bite, a patient and the dentist should be sure that this bite is the right bite. This is determined if the patient is free of pain and comfortable with the new appliance. Then and only then, should bite reconstruction be planned and attempted. This is important since many techniques after they are begun do not allow patients to go back to where they started. There is often no return.

          Remember that a TMJ splint from different dentists are often different. Some dentists use a muscle relaxing device to relax the muscles to determine a correct bite. Some dentists use the anatomy and use an orthopaedic approach. Finally, some dentists use a kind of orthodontic style that is based on the study of dental occlusion. If you are suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction and would like to visit with Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, our TMJ dentist, make a consultation appointment at 404-874-7428.