repositioning splints

[GenDen]

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.

[J-man]

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

[GenDen]

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

[J-man]

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

[GenDen]

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.