GenDen
09-23-2002, 04:21 PM
Has anyone had success with a repositioning splint? I think a Mora/Gelb or Michigan splint fit into this category. If so, how long did it take? I have worn two different splints with no success. I am now being treated by a TMJ specialist who recommends a repositioning splint.
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J-man
09-23-2002, 04:56 PM
Hi GenDen,
I am using 2 splints now which are a type of repositioning splint. The first is called a bionator, and it is a device which both your top and bottom teeth fit into. I wear it only at night, and its main job is to keep my lower jaw forward,during the night. The second splint I have is a pull forward splint, which is very much like the one you describe. It's intended for day time use. So far I've been finding some success with the bionator, but the pull forward splint hasn't been working for me that well. I'm hoping that in time, this splint will work for me as well.
John
I am using 2 splints now which are a type of repositioning splint. The first is called a bionator, and it is a device which both your top and bottom teeth fit into. I wear it only at night, and its main job is to keep my lower jaw forward,during the night. The second splint I have is a pull forward splint, which is very much like the one you describe. It's intended for day time use. So far I've been finding some success with the bionator, but the pull forward splint hasn't been working for me that well. I'm hoping that in time, this splint will work for me as well.
John
GenDen
09-23-2002, 05:57 PM
Thanks for your reply. I too will be wearing a bionator at night. Is the daytime forward positioning splint not working as well because it is hard to keep it adjusted properly for your bite, or is there some other reason? Also, if I am not asking too many personal questions, I would like to know how long you have been in this treatment.
Thanks so much
Thanks so much
J-man
09-23-2002, 07:43 PM
Hi GenDen,
No probs about the questions. That's what we're all here for :-)
Well I've been using the bionator for about 2 months now. I don't find this an extremely comfortable device to wear, because it's so bulky. And of course you can't talk with it, as well, because it fits into both your upper and lower teeth.
The pull forward splint I've only used for about 3 weeks, but part of this time I haven't been wearing it, due to discomfort.
I have a few theories about why the pullforward splint isn't working so well. When I compare the bionator to the pullforward splint, and I ask myself, "why has the bionator helped me some and the pull forward splint hasn't helped much at all?", I think it may possibly be because only the bionator pulls my jaw forward actively. In order to bite into it, I have to move my lower jaw forward.
According to my dentist, the pull forward splint doesn't really pull your jaw forward as such. Rather it provides a situation which makes your jaw joints relax, and so your jaw naturally moves forward.
Based on these differences, I think that because my bionator is actively pulling my jaw forward, my condyle, which is located back of where it should be, is helped by this action alone. The pull forward splint, on the other hand, lets me bite, in the position my condyle currently is (too far back and therefore compressing nerves in the joint space).
My theory is that when your jaw is 'out of position' you can't tolerate your bite being 'off' as much as you can when your jaw is pulled forward ( or at least into the position it should be)
Please let me know how you continue to do in your treatment.
John
No probs about the questions. That's what we're all here for :-)
Well I've been using the bionator for about 2 months now. I don't find this an extremely comfortable device to wear, because it's so bulky. And of course you can't talk with it, as well, because it fits into both your upper and lower teeth.
The pull forward splint I've only used for about 3 weeks, but part of this time I haven't been wearing it, due to discomfort.
I have a few theories about why the pullforward splint isn't working so well. When I compare the bionator to the pullforward splint, and I ask myself, "why has the bionator helped me some and the pull forward splint hasn't helped much at all?", I think it may possibly be because only the bionator pulls my jaw forward actively. In order to bite into it, I have to move my lower jaw forward.
According to my dentist, the pull forward splint doesn't really pull your jaw forward as such. Rather it provides a situation which makes your jaw joints relax, and so your jaw naturally moves forward.
Based on these differences, I think that because my bionator is actively pulling my jaw forward, my condyle, which is located back of where it should be, is helped by this action alone. The pull forward splint, on the other hand, lets me bite, in the position my condyle currently is (too far back and therefore compressing nerves in the joint space).
My theory is that when your jaw is 'out of position' you can't tolerate your bite being 'off' as much as you can when your jaw is pulled forward ( or at least into the position it should be)
Please let me know how you continue to do in your treatment.
John
GenDen
09-23-2002, 10:31 PM
Thanks again.
Went to the TMJ specialist today. I'm on a temporary splint and have the bionator. I told him the bionator was like putting a compact car in my mouth. The good thing about it is that it will keep me from clenching. I'll keep you posted.
Went to the TMJ specialist today. I'm on a temporary splint and have the bionator. I told him the bionator was like putting a compact car in my mouth. The good thing about it is that it will keep me from clenching. I'll keep you posted.
Marlene
09-23-2002, 10:36 PM
Hi GenDen,
Yes, I had success with a repositioning splint. In my case (and according to my TMJ Dentist, I was a pretty BAD case), I wore my splint 24/7 including to eat with, for 1 year.
Marlene
Yes, I had success with a repositioning splint. In my case (and according to my TMJ Dentist, I was a pretty BAD case), I wore my splint 24/7 including to eat with, for 1 year.
Marlene
GenDen
09-23-2002, 11:58 PM
Marlene,
Thank you. This is encouraging.
Thank you. This is encouraging.
paintitbetter
09-24-2002, 12:35 AM
Thanks for the splint lesson. Have you guys been changing doctors, therefore changing splint options?
I've been wearing mine for a year. My progress is not as I hoped it to be, So I went back to wearing it full time, especially while eating.
I use to cheat a lot, during the year. Now at 100% compliance, I"m starting to experience better results.
Mark
[This message has been edited by paintitbetter (edited 09-24-2002).]
I've been wearing mine for a year. My progress is not as I hoped it to be, So I went back to wearing it full time, especially while eating.
I use to cheat a lot, during the year. Now at 100% compliance, I"m starting to experience better results.
Mark
[This message has been edited by paintitbetter (edited 09-24-2002).]
mbr22
09-26-2002, 01:20 PM
Hi all - I had a "pull-forward" type of splint years ago, which permantly repositioned my bite so as not to hit on my back teeth. It didn't help with the chonic daily headache or jaw pain however.
This year I am trying a neuromuscular splint (since April), and right now, my jaw is apparently in a very relaxed position, however no pain relief has happened.
I do not clench or grind (all pain and ear pressure symptoms began years ago right after 4 wisdom teeth removed). Tomograms show TM joints are fine, however that tooth removal really screwed something up, to cause such persistant pain around my eyes, temples and jaw. The pain around eyes is the worst!
What to try next? Any tips?
thanks,
mbr
[This message has been edited by mbr22 (edited 09-26-2002).]
This year I am trying a neuromuscular splint (since April), and right now, my jaw is apparently in a very relaxed position, however no pain relief has happened.
I do not clench or grind (all pain and ear pressure symptoms began years ago right after 4 wisdom teeth removed). Tomograms show TM joints are fine, however that tooth removal really screwed something up, to cause such persistant pain around my eyes, temples and jaw. The pain around eyes is the worst!
What to try next? Any tips?
thanks,
mbr
[This message has been edited by mbr22 (edited 09-26-2002).]
justanotherday
09-26-2002, 09:14 PM
mine wasn't a repositioning splint he just gave me some mouth guard to fit over my upper teeth to wear at night. i paid so much for it and it didn't even do anything then i go to the drugstore the other day and i see practically the same thing for like 5.99 the only difference is the 1 he made for me was custom made to fit my teeth. i feel like i got majorly scammed. then the dude is like i am not going to send you for an mri you'd be wasting your money because it wouldnt make any difference what it showed cuz you have a normal opening... so i can't even see whether my disks are displaced or not
GenDen
09-27-2002, 04:55 PM
mbr22,
Thanks for the information on the neuromuscular splint. Did you get it from a TMJ specialist? Does he practice neuromuscular dentistry? Is it a splint fashioned after computer tracking of your jaw movements? Do you wear it day and night including when you eat?
Sorry for so many questions. If they are too personal, please disregard. I am just trying to sort out my own treatment to see what might work best.
Thanks
Thanks for the information on the neuromuscular splint. Did you get it from a TMJ specialist? Does he practice neuromuscular dentistry? Is it a splint fashioned after computer tracking of your jaw movements? Do you wear it day and night including when you eat?
Sorry for so many questions. If they are too personal, please disregard. I am just trying to sort out my own treatment to see what might work best.
Thanks
mbr22
10-07-2002, 08:38 AM
Hi GenDen - Yes, the splint I wear has been fashioned by a neuromuscular or dentist. I wear it while sleeping and most of the day, but not while eating. I did have my jaw computer tracked to find the most comfortable position for my jaw. Apparently, my jaw is in a relaxed position, but I am finding no benefit from the splint.
At this time, I am at a loss for what to do next. I do not clench or grind my teeth, and mys jaw is apparently relaxed, I can keep my teeth from touching all day, but pain persists. I really want to demand an MRI of my TMJ area, to see if the dentists are missing something. I truly believe I have a TMJ disorder, but every darn specialist wants to concentrate on bruxism issues, which is not the cause of my symptoms (all symptoms began after I had my wisdom teeth removed, and I believe my jaw was stretched way too wide, and thus the ligaments or tendons got damaged, or something inn the joint).
It's very frustrating.
Starr - it sounds like you have a neuromuscular splint, but you may want to ask the dentist. Also, I have not worn a splint when eating, so not sure how to help you there. I don't think I would be able to have a splint in while eating. Good luck.
mbr
At this time, I am at a loss for what to do next. I do not clench or grind my teeth, and mys jaw is apparently relaxed, I can keep my teeth from touching all day, but pain persists. I really want to demand an MRI of my TMJ area, to see if the dentists are missing something. I truly believe I have a TMJ disorder, but every darn specialist wants to concentrate on bruxism issues, which is not the cause of my symptoms (all symptoms began after I had my wisdom teeth removed, and I believe my jaw was stretched way too wide, and thus the ligaments or tendons got damaged, or something inn the joint).
It's very frustrating.
Starr - it sounds like you have a neuromuscular splint, but you may want to ask the dentist. Also, I have not worn a splint when eating, so not sure how to help you there. I don't think I would be able to have a splint in while eating. Good luck.
mbr
cfreund
10-07-2002, 07:36 PM
I am wearing splints 24/7 -- eating, sleeping, you name it. I wear a bottom one in the morning and a top one at night. They are both really hard to get used to. I have been wearing them for 6 weeks and still feel like gagging sometimes. It's hard to eat with the bottom one (food gets stuck in it) and impossible to eat or talk with the top one since there's a piece that sticks down. And yes, it's definitely painful at times and I want to just spit it out and throw it out the window.
I'm not sure if it's even doing anything at this point. I sure hope all this nuisance will be worth it. Good luck!
I'm not sure if it's even doing anything at this point. I sure hope all this nuisance will be worth it. Good luck!
GenDen
10-07-2002, 11:07 PM
I have had my permanent splints--night and day-- for less than two weeks. I have already been back two times for adjustments. The night one is causing pain and I am going back in tomorrow for an adjustment on that one. My TMJ specialist told me not to wear either one if it hurt and to call him immediately. The day splint seems to be adjusted well now. However, it may change as time goes on. I believe that the Dentist should make adjustments as needed. Mine has been very happy to do so. I eat with my day splint. Yes, it does take some getting used to. However, I can see that if I eat with it out, it will stress the muscles/joints just like they were being stressed before the splints. I am just beginning this process after five years of pain and failed treatment by another TMJ specialist. He was not willing to listen to me or adjust the splint to relieve pain. He charged me an initial fee for diagnosis and the splint. Then each visit for an adjustment was $80.00. My current TMJ specialist charged one fee for the diagnosis, splints and any adjustments I needed through phase I treatment. That way I call him when I need an adjustment because I don't have to pay an additional amount. It can be a bottomless pit. He is very accommodating to my needs and I feel good about the treatment so far.
mbr22
10-08-2002, 09:14 AM
Hi all - I realize it's different for everyone, but when should I expect to get any relief from these repositioning splints? I mean, I don't want to wear the thing for months and see no relief.
Thanks for any info,
mbr
Thanks for any info,
mbr
GenDen
10-08-2002, 06:23 PM
My specialist tells me not to wear the splint if it causes pain. He says it is normal for it to need adjusting every few days for the first while. I got my permanent splint less than two weeks ago and have had it adjusted three times since. Today he spent two hours with me. I have an appointment in two weeks, but he said to call anytime if I have a problem. If there is pain wearing the splint, it needs to be adjusted. The splint should make it feel better, not hurt.
GenDen
10-09-2002, 01:13 PM
I believe I had the temporary splint for three weeks before the permanent one. The temporary one was adjusted three times. Actually he made a new temporary one each time. There are several reasons why the splint needs to be adjusted regularly. In the beginning, it has to be adjusted to get it in the right position. Also, the muscles change as they adapt to the splint. They change dramatically if the splint is able to recapture the disc. It is good when the muscles relax, but then the splint needs to be changed. It is changed by grinding the splint and/or adding more acrylic to build it up in places. Pain is not good. I am not a dentist or medical professional, so this is only my personal opinion. But, I would not wear a splint that was hurting. If it just felt like it was stretching the muscles, that might be okay. Pain is a different thing. If there is pain, in my opinion it might be doing more harm than good. It would also depend on whether the pain was different from the pain experienced before wearing the splint. In any case, I think regular visits with the dentist is important. A dentist/TMJD specialist has a lot of experience with the condition and symptoms/changing symptoms tell him/her a lot that are important to the treatment. Can you imagine an orthodontist putting braces on someone and saying, see you in two years? Of course not. There are a lot of changes that take place and adjustments need to take place.
paintitbetter
10-10-2002, 10:34 AM
Starr,
If your having problems, go back to the doctor. ASAP, That's what there for.
I've been wearing my splint for 13 months, I go see my doctor every two weeks. I usually see one of three different assistance. Sometimes I'll have a flare up and need to go back, mostly for advice on what to do.
It might take a little time to get your muscles use to there new position, so I think some pain is normal. But I would go back to your doctor, and tell him your concerns.
Good luck
Mark
If your having problems, go back to the doctor. ASAP, That's what there for.
I've been wearing my splint for 13 months, I go see my doctor every two weeks. I usually see one of three different assistance. Sometimes I'll have a flare up and need to go back, mostly for advice on what to do.
It might take a little time to get your muscles use to there new position, so I think some pain is normal. But I would go back to your doctor, and tell him your concerns.
Good luck
Mark
paintitbetter
10-10-2002, 10:58 AM
Starr,
One thing I forgot to write in the last post. you said
"I am scared I am going to break the darn thing if I try to eat with it, so I haven't been eating with it. I tried and just couldn't!"
It's very important to eat with the splint. My doctor explained it to me this way. He said " If you had a broken leg in a cast. And you took the cast off and went running, your leg would never heal."
After a year I finally started to listen, took a long time to get used to. Now, I even go to restaurants with the thing. After you eat with it for a while, you will find it to not be a problem.
Gen,
I have the same kind of deal with my Doctor. Pay one price up front, Then no more fees for follow up treatment. That's the way to go if you can. I can't count the number of times I've been back at his office.
Mark
One thing I forgot to write in the last post. you said
"I am scared I am going to break the darn thing if I try to eat with it, so I haven't been eating with it. I tried and just couldn't!"
It's very important to eat with the splint. My doctor explained it to me this way. He said " If you had a broken leg in a cast. And you took the cast off and went running, your leg would never heal."
After a year I finally started to listen, took a long time to get used to. Now, I even go to restaurants with the thing. After you eat with it for a while, you will find it to not be a problem.
Gen,
I have the same kind of deal with my Doctor. Pay one price up front, Then no more fees for follow up treatment. That's the way to go if you can. I can't count the number of times I've been back at his office.
Mark
Marlene
10-10-2002, 04:37 PM
Starr,
Some of the main reasons why splints don't work:
- the appliance is not designed properly and therefore it does not eliminate the cause of the problem
- failure to wear the appliance as instructed (ie. night time only or 24/7 including eating)
- the appliance needs adjusting - if it doesn't fit properly, it must be adjusted appropriately to do it's job
- unrealistic expectations - TMJ symptoms don't develop overnight and consequently are not going to be relieved overnight
Marlene
Some of the main reasons why splints don't work:
- the appliance is not designed properly and therefore it does not eliminate the cause of the problem
- failure to wear the appliance as instructed (ie. night time only or 24/7 including eating)
- the appliance needs adjusting - if it doesn't fit properly, it must be adjusted appropriately to do it's job
- unrealistic expectations - TMJ symptoms don't develop overnight and consequently are not going to be relieved overnight
Marlene
GenDen
10-10-2002, 11:36 PM
Marlene,
You answered the questions perfectly.
I think that if there is pain, it is important to work closely with the specialist. He/she will know if it is good pain or bad pain and if and how the splint needs to be adjusted.
I have had my hopes up so many times before with various treatments that I am hesitant to be hopeful, BUT, after my splint was adjusted on Monday, I have felt better than I have for a long, long time. Just hope it lasts. If it doesn't, I'll be right back in Dr. Joe's office.
You answered the questions perfectly.
I think that if there is pain, it is important to work closely with the specialist. He/she will know if it is good pain or bad pain and if and how the splint needs to be adjusted.
I have had my hopes up so many times before with various treatments that I am hesitant to be hopeful, BUT, after my splint was adjusted on Monday, I have felt better than I have for a long, long time. Just hope it lasts. If it doesn't, I'll be right back in Dr. Joe's office.
bethweb
10-28-2002, 01:14 PM
Hang in there - the splints are really hard to get used to, but they are totally worth it. I've been wearing the day and night splints 24/7 for about 8 months. My symptoms are about 75% gone. It was incredibly hard to get used to wearing them at first, but it was totally worth it. I cried every day for the first two weeks because it was so hard to eat/talk in the day splint. I felt so self-conscious. But it just takes time for your jaw to get used to being held in a new position.
Any of you that have a hard time talking in your day splint (lisping!), don't be afraid to ask your dentist to file down the splint some. I went back and had mine filed three times. It was so thick around my tongue and I lisped so bad, it made me not want to talk at all I was so embarrased. But by filing the sides down around my tongue (not the top where your upper teeth fit into), it made it much easier to talk. There are still certain words/sounds that you can tell i am wearing it, but overall most people can't tell.
Hang in there. It's totally worth it.
Any of you that have a hard time talking in your day splint (lisping!), don't be afraid to ask your dentist to file down the splint some. I went back and had mine filed three times. It was so thick around my tongue and I lisped so bad, it made me not want to talk at all I was so embarrased. But by filing the sides down around my tongue (not the top where your upper teeth fit into), it made it much easier to talk. There are still certain words/sounds that you can tell i am wearing it, but overall most people can't tell.
Hang in there. It's totally worth it.