Expert: Susan Tannenbam - 2/5/2005

Question
Hi Susan,

Thanks for taking the time out to answer questions on TMJ!  I appreciate it.

I have been dealing with my TMJ for 20 years and it's only getting worse.

Diagnosis has confirmed that I have a problem with both joints of my jaw.

I recently went to an orthodontist who recommends a very expensive orthotic ($1,800 ) which looks very much like the night guard I already have except it has these metal prongs that stick out which move the teeth or jaw I guess.  He said that after the jaw alignment is corrected then I need to wear braces again ( I wore them in my twenties) to correct an overbite.  

What is your opinion on orthotics and braces to correct TMJ pain?  Also, do you have any opinion on either the Oral Sensor or Grind Alert products that alert you if you are clenching or grinding?  I am not grinding my teeth, but must be clenching if I have TMJ.

Anyway,  any info. you can pass on to me would be helpful.  Thank you.

Garnet

Answer
I am not a dentist, so I'm speaking from the point of view of someone who has TMJ.  I never heard of braces for correcting the jaw alignment, but I would be very hesitant to go that route.  My dentist, who treats my TMJ and is great, discouraged me from having any kind of dental work done, as there's no guarantee it would help.  

I never heard of the oral sensor, or grind alert, so I can't comment on that.

I use a nightguard (have for years) and I am fine as long as I wear it every single night.  

I suggest you find a good dentist that treats TMJ, before you go ahead with braces.  I personally, would  not go that route, but you need to get an opinion from a  professional.

I have used the Alpha-Stim100 (you can look it up on www.alpha-stim.com)  to treat TMJ pain.  It's  expensive, but works for me.  A doctor approved me using it and gave me the  needed RX for it.

Good  Luck!