|
Patients who have been diagnosed with muscle spasm or hyperactivity that is causing the problem with the jaw are given a splint. We have found that splint therapy relieves the discomfort and the patient is able to open their jaw better. The splint is usually worn for about three to six months and as needed thereafter. Patients with problems that have developed inside the joint are diagnosed as meniscus displacement. The disc is found to be displaced out of its normal position. The disc is either displaced but goes back to its normal position during jaw motion is referred to as meniscus displacement with reduction. If the disc does not go back to its normal position, it is referred to as meniscus displacement without reduction. Many times we will have the patient have a magnetic resonance imaging study in the open and closed mouth position to determine the degree of meniscus displacement. Treatments for TMD Splint Therapy We have found that splint therapy works well with patient with muscle spasms or soreness. The splint is a semi-hard acrylic that is worn over the lower teeth. We recommend that the splint be worn for 3 to 6 months. Initially, the splint is worn at all times but not during eating. We have found that after the initial period of therapy, patients will wear the splint only as needed. Arthroscopy Patients who have disc displacement will benefit tremendously from arthroscopy. Arthroscopy is preformed in the surgery center and only takes one hour per joint. An arthroscope is placed into the joint in front of the ear. By arthroscopy, we are able to visualize the entire joint space and remove any pathology. This will allow the meniscus to move more freely and function better. The patient will be able to move their jaw better and without any discomfort or pain immediately after surgery. There is very little postoperative discomfort and the patient is able to eat and drink immediately after the procedure. Arthrotomy Very rarely, we have to open the joint space to remove pathology that cannot be corrected with an arthroscope. The surgery takes about 2 hours and is done as an outpatient in the surgery center. The incisions are cosmetic and cannot be seen after the wound has healed. |
