Cymy Sue

Hi Cheryl,

I've been reading alot about research, theories, techniques, "Different Schools of Thought", case histories, etc.

There are as many different ideas as there are Dentist.

Many in this field can go to school, study techniques, adhere to a certain theory or philosophy of treatment, read all the "Books" (electronic or paper)but if they do not truly understand what is going on with our TMJ problems, "They really don't get it". Very few of us are "Textbook cases".

I don't know much about Neuromuscular Dentistry. I've read their Course Curriculum and information from other sources. (I have read Dr. Jankelson's original theories) I am concerned that if a NM Dentist strictly applies what he learns from these Current Courses and does not understand the true philosophy or theory of the muscular aspects, you may be getting an assembly line type treatment. This can apply to any Care Provider who only sees "ONE WAY".

"I absolutely believe there are good Dentists who use many different techniques."

It sounds like, since this one splint has not helped, this Dentist does not see anything else he can do.
It seems, that those of us who have done well with our treatments, have had Dentists or Orthos who integrate many different theories and techniques. Also, it seems they see the "Big Picture" particularly in regard to TM joint related muscular problems.
Again, I'm just speaking in general terms, not aimed at anyone.

I have read that many splints are too thick, do not allow the teeth to rest comfortably on a flat surface and actually cause more muscle problems than they relieve. They are "holding" your jaws in an un natural position. This is what my Dentist believes, but from some of the material I've read, this is becoming, very quickly, a more accepted approach.
The less intrusive the appliance, in regard to muscular problems, the better it works.

I just read your repost of how Mike's problem started and how his teeth are. It does sound like he needs Orthodontia to correct some of these things, but he has to be out of pain first.
I don't know anything about a palatal expander other than what I've read here. I understand the concept. I think you're doing the right thing to check into this more.
The fact that Mike's braces were pulling to one side for several months???, with the broken anchor band, I suppose could have affected his palate. Is there any evidence to support this. Does his impressions show a difference, before and after? (If you've posted this, I'm sorry, I've forgotten) Had you been told before that Mike's palate was in need of expanding?

From all you've written, it seems like the broken braces created an incredible "Muscular Mess".

I wonder if this Dentist could be giving up too soon.
With all of the "Splint Accidents", has Mike really worn his splint continual without interuption, for several weeks?

I don't understand if this splint is not working, why would the Dentist not try a different type?

(Many) Years ago, Ortho's would make one and if you didn't get relief, they would try something different.
Of course, treatment was different then and several types of splints would be included in the treatment plan, with no added cost.

I wish I had the answer. It comes down to finding someone who knows what they are doing and has a plan B, C and maybe D, if the first approach does not work.

Just my own opinion and by no means "Expert". Mike does not have the right splint for his problems. He is being treated according to one school of thought and everyone is not helped by this.

With the complications he's had, the anxiety and fears about this pain "never going away" and all you both have been through, you need to find someone who is open to all that is known about treating TM joint muscular problems. Someone who can make a U-turn if the first treatment he tries does not work.

I wish I could help you find this person. I know they are out there.

I hope this is not to scattered to understand. I can't seem to say what I'm thinking. I'm trying to stay busy, but my thoughts drift to my Mother. My Mother does not look good. She seems to be better, but I saw her yesterday for a while and she looks really bad. Thanks for your concern. I'll probably stay with her some this week. I'll let you know.

Cymy Sue