TMJD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatment in Ballarat

Disorders of the Jaw Joints

The jaw joint is also known as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). It allows the jaw to hinge open and move from side to side. It is important for eating and talking and is a very complex system of muscle and joints.

Often people get pain in the TMJ, and this may result in limitation in jaw opening and pain. Often this syndrome is called TMJD or TMJS Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction or Syndrome. About 70% of people suffer from jaw joint problems and can seek treatment at Quality Sleep Clinic.

Causes of TMJD are multifactorial and may include

Missing teeth
Grinding or clenching of teeth
Emotional and physical stress
Injuries and fractures or dislocation of the TMJ
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Poorly shaped fillings, crowns, bridges or implants

What Are the Symptoms of TMJD?

Limited jaw movement
Difficulty opening the mouth
Lockjaw
Clicking grating or popping noises
Pain while chewing, yawning or opening the jaw widely
Pain in or around the ear

Headaches, migraines and nausea
Earache, loss of hearing or ringing in the ears
Face, neck, back or shoulder pain
Muscle spasms
Clenching or grinding the teeth
Uncomfortable bite or occlusion

Treatment of TMJ Disorders

Occlusal Appliance Therapy

This is the focus of treatment at Quality Sleep Clinic once you are diagnosed of having TMJD.

The latest technology used by Quality Sleep Clinic is to construct TMJ splints made from 3D printed Nylon. These occlusal splints are unsurpassed with regard to absolute minimal dimensions, comfort and strength.

The 3DS Protect occlusal splint, made from laser sintered 3D printed Nylon, is the most advanced appliance available. It is unbreakable in the mouth, even down to a thickness of 0.5mm.

Patient comfort is unparalleled with digital design, ensuring the lowest possible profile and optimised retention. 3D printed Nylon splints are now the gold standard for providing protection to the teeth in the long term. Compliance is also no longer a problem, as has been the case with acrylic resin splints.

The 3DS Protect can be designed with flat planes or with cuspid and anterior guidance.

Custom Made 3D Printed Nylon Appliance from 3D Sleep Lab

Online Consultations Available

Features of 3D Printed Occlusal Splints

The properties of 3D printed Nylon are far superior to the traditional acrylic resin and includes comfort, strength and unobtrusiveness.

The following features of the 3DS Protect ensure maximum patient compliance:

Minimal dimensions, down to a thickness of 0.5mm on sidewalls
Virtually unbreakable, even in extremely thin sections
Exceptional fit achieved through the scanning and printing technology
Thermoplastic - It can be softened in boiling water to accommodate restorative or other changes in the dentition

There are also other treatments that can be just as effective, including: