Displaced disks, breakdown of condylar bone - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

Literati · 07-07-2003, 02:45 PM

So I just received my MRI results and it doesn't look good.
My disks are displaced on both sides and my left condylar head is really tiny and in "very poor shape...breakdown of the bone."

My TMJ specialist said that there is a possibility the bone can grow back. However, my periodontist said there's no way it can grow back due to the pathway of motion. Which one is right?

Also, what can I expect from displaced disks? Will it alter my face? Cause more pain? Is there any way I can recapture the disks? Again, I have a 3 mm anterior open bite and am considering braces & orthognathic surgery.

Sorry if this is a redundant topic. But please post if you have experience with this sorta thing. Take care.

TiffanyAnn · 07-07-2003, 06:28 PM

Hi Literati:
Heavens, who knows which of the two opinions is the right one. It always amazes me that there can be so many different interpretations from something like an x-ray which should show how things are. It's the battle of opinions I guess.

Displaced discs can sometimes be recaptured with splint therapy. My left disc is displaced. I am going to do splint therapy followed by braces once the TMJ is under control. I refuse to consider surgery. Far too many people who have had surgery ended up in more pain than they started out with. Then their surgeons/doctors/dentists have told them that they have done all they can for them and refuse to treat them further. Of course, the dentist has all their money. It's absolutely sick. Doctors are blood suckers!! If I were you I would try everything else first before even considering surgery. Once any joint has been messed with it is never the same again.

Personally, I don't feel it's absolutely necessary to recapture the disc. If I can get out of pain and the headaches stop I will consider my treatment a success.
Tiffany