Getting treated for TMJ. Wearing a splint to prevent teeth grinding. Need a solution
Patient: Hello, I started out being treated for TMJ mainly just wearing a splint to keep from grinding teeth ., over a year. Now I find I have jaw deterioation on the right side caused by arthritis . I am constantly aware of this because the teeth collide on that side almost like my jaw has dropped causing speech problems & stress. I have seen 3 oral surgeons & other doctors but they seem to think I don t have a problem & won t treat me. The last Doc was an orthodontist & really showed what was wrong but could not help. What kind of doctor do I need? I m so disgusted w the drs. I have seen & please don t suggest I see another TMJ Dr. Thank you & please help. Doctor: Hello Robinson,  Thanks for posting your query.  As per the details provided,you were wearing splint to prevent grinding of teeth. This has lead into jaw deterioration due to imbalanced occlusion or biting. I would suggest you to use either side of the jaws equally/simultaneously,without applying pressure on a single side. If required,the splint has to be removed.  You can also try jaw movement exercises. avoid too much of wide mouth opening. hope this helps.