Splint Therapy for TMJ
Splint Therapy for TMJ
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) serves more purposes than just joining the jaw and skull. Dr Judy Sturm of Toronto Sleep Centre draws attention to these additional uses for the joint. This joint affects our posture and is necessary for speaking and chewing. However, because of its significance and regular use, it may be vulnerable to several problems. In addition to symptoms like jaw locking and clicking noises, TMD, also known as TMJ disorder, manifests as swelling, pain, and discomfort in the jaw region.
Thankfully, treating TMD can be relatively simple. Splint therapy, which uses a specially made device to relieve joint stress and realign the jaw, is one useful technique. This non-invasive method can greatly enhance joint function and lessen symptoms. A consultation with a medical expert like Dr. Morris can illuminate your TMD symptoms and provide practical treatment solutions.
How TMJ is treated?
Dr. Judy Sturm may suggest an oral appliance or splint to treat TMJ. The way crutches support an ankle or knee injury, this device repositions the jaw to relieve stress on the TMJ. Using an oral appliance entails fitting a removable dental appliance called a splint over the upper or lower teeth. These dental lab-made splints effectively relieve TMJ symptoms with their precise and customised fit.
Treating TMJ disorders at Toronto Sleep Centre involves a multifaceted approach. A splint can help manage TMJ-related symptoms, reduce pain, and enhance jaw function. Talking through these treatment options with a medical expert like Dr. Morris can be a crucial first step toward resolving TMJ problems and enhancing your quality of life.
A dental impression of your teeth is used to create the splints used to treat TMJ, ensuring a personalized fit specific to your mouth. Usually made of durable acrylic resin, these are exquisite. Following the splint’s creation, Dr Judy Sturm of Toronto Sleep Centre will meticulously fit and adjust it to ensure it relieves pressure on your TMJ and promotes healing.
Patients are directed to attend routine follow-up appointments and wear the splint as prescribed, whether at night, during the day, or both. These consultations are essential for tracking the development of symptoms and modifying the splint as needed. Additionally, Dr. Morris will give thorough instructions on caring for and maintaining the splint.
This procedure is crucial for treating TMJ disorders and guaranteeing that the therapy is working. Regularly using the splint as instructed and appropriate care is essential to get the best results in reducing TMJ-related symptoms.
According to Dr. Judy Sturm, splints are essential for reducing the symptoms of TMJ disorders because they relax the muscles and ligaments in the jaw. When it comes to addressing unconscious habits like clenching and grinding, which are frequently major contributors to TMJ pain, this relaxation is especially crucial.
Furthermore, a major contributing factor to TMD may be bite misalignments. Overbites and underbites can cause excessive strain on the jaw, which can cause discomfort associated with TMD. The purpose of the splint is to help relieve this strain by adjusting the bite angle to a more comfortable and natural position.
Splints are also useful in treating bruxism, where teeth grind or clench. This treatment is essential to halting additional tooth deterioration. Both conscious and unconscious teeth grinding and clenching are common causes of bruxism-related problems like headaches, sore teeth, and excessive enamel wear. Patients can lessen these effects and safeguard their oral health by wearing a splint.
Type of Splints
Stabilization Splints: The main purpose of stabilization splints is to relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) resulting from grinding, clenching, and other symptoms of bruxism. They are usually worn on the upper teeth and are only used at night. They are made to cover all teeth.
Repositioning Splints: The purpose of repositioning splints is to address problems with bite alignment or occlusions. Wearing them all day long helps prevent TMJ pressure. Splints are constantly repositioned each day until the required alignment is attained.
Splints provide a long-term fix for the underlying problems and effectively treat bruxism and occlusions. However, in certain situations, “Phase II” procedures might be necessary to permanently reposition the jaw in the comfortable position these appliances have helped achieve. Orthodontics, dental restorations, or, in more extreme situations, surgery may be part of these treatments.
Making an appointment with Dr. Judy Sturm is a wise first step if you are dealing with TMD symptoms and wondering if splints could help. Your appointment at Toronto Sleep Centre will involve a thorough examination to address your particular concerns. In certain cases, dental imaging might be required to comprehend the underlying causes fully. Even though TMD can be a complicated condition, patients can usually regain full functionality and comfort with the help of available treatments.