Managing Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Bite Alignment
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello Dr. Chiu, I have issues with my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and malocclusion. My left side is progressing from stage IV to stage V, while my right side is at stage II. I started treatment with an occlusal splint two years ago, but yesterday ...
Dr. Qiu Qiongyao Reply:
A physician must not administer treatment, prescribe medication, or issue a diagnosis without a personal examination. Hello, Ms. Peggy: Yes, please make the necessary adjustments! Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Managing Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Bite Alignment
How Soon Should You Return for TMJ Issues After Noticing Bite Changes?
How soon should I return for a follow-up appointment after noticing an open bite while wearing an occlusal splint? Hello, Doctor. I have been undergoing treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder with an occlusal splint for over a year. I have been paying special attent...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Anonymous, Hello! If you notice an open bite while wearing the occlusal splint, it is important to return to the clinic promptly. If the open bite persists while wearing the splint, adjustments can be made to the splint; however, if you remove it and still have an open bit...[Read More] How Soon Should You Return for TMJ Issues After Noticing Bite Changes?
Understanding Clicking Sounds in the Left TMJ: Causes and Solutions
Occasionally, there is a clicking sound in the left temporomandibular joint? Hello, doctor. I have been wearing an occlusal splint for over 10 years, but occasionally I hear a clicking sound from the left temporomandibular joint. I would like to ask if the clicking sound in the j...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Vivian, Thank you for your letter. The clicking sound in your joints is one of the symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which may sometimes be accompanied by muscle or joint soreness. However, we cannot rule out other neurological issues or dental problems th...[Read More] Understanding Clicking Sounds in the Left TMJ: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Treatment Options
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, doctor. It seems that I started having temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues after eating something too hard when I was younger. I hear clicking sounds whether my mouth is open or closed, and it feels like the bones are being worn down. There w...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Yan Yan, Hello, based on the situation described, the popping sound is related to a joint issue and is not necessarily bilateral. Wearing an occlusal splint can only alleviate muscle pressure but cannot eliminate the problem. I recommend that you visit a clinic or hospital ...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues and Treatment Options
Understanding Left TMJ Pain: Treatment Options and Management Strategies
Left temporomandibular joint pain? Hello Doctor: In mid-July of this year, I gradually began to experience tooth pain, which increased in frequency. In August, I visited a major hospital to see both a dentist and a neurologist, and later I was referred to an oral specialist. My j...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Hello, I recommend visiting a clinic to confirm whether the location of your tooth pain has cavities. If there are no cavities, it may be a joint issue. Surgery is the last resort; a bite splint can relieve tension but cannot eliminate the problem. Wishing you pea...[Read More] Understanding Left TMJ Pain: Treatment Options and Management Strategies
Improving Jaw Deviation After Condylar Fracture: Rehabilitation Insights
Condylar fracture with mandibular deviation upon opening the mouth? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident over two years ago that resulted in a left condylar fracture. After undergoing intraoral surgery, I still have a deviation (subluxation). I am currently using an occlusal splin...
Dr. Huang Tingfang Reply:
Dear Anonymous Miss: Hello! As mentioned, it is acceptable for the mandible to deviate when opening the mouth due to muscle traction after a condylar fracture, as long as the occlusion is normal, it should not affect the quality of life. Rehabilitation can improve the condition, ...[Read More] Improving Jaw Deviation After Condylar Fracture: Rehabilitation Insights
Understanding Occlusal Splints and TMJ Treatment: Your Questions Answered
Occlusal splint bite points and joint clinic irrigation? Dear Dr. Huang, 1. I have been suffering from temporomandibular joint pain for nearly ten years, making it difficult for me to chew food. I have been using an occlusal splint, but my mouth can only open two fingers wide, a...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Salina, 1. The principles and functions of occlusal splints are varied, but generally, the goal is to achieve an even occlusion, which should be discussed with your dentist. 2. After wearing an occlusal splint for one night, the muscles may adjust, resulting in variations i...[Read More] Understanding Occlusal Splints and TMJ Treatment: Your Questions Answered
Improving Jaw Alignment: Solutions for TMJ Issues in Adolescents
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Dr. Huang: Hello! My daughter is currently 12 years old. When she was about 7, she fractured the growth plate on the right side of her mandible. Now, due to an abnormal bite, she is injuring the inner cheek muscles, and there is a protrusion on the c...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, if you accidentally bite the side of your tongue, it is recommended to consult a dentist to smooth out any sharp edges of your teeth to prevent further injuries. You may return to the clinic to discuss with your doctor the possibility of creating an occlusal splint. Wishin...[Read More] Improving Jaw Alignment: Solutions for TMJ Issues in Adolescents
Understanding Jaw Joint Disorders After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder) Hello Doctor: About four months ago, I had my upper left and lower left wisdom teeth extracted. Approximately one month after the extraction, I began experiencing pain in my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Prior to the extraction, I ...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you maintain proper oral hygiene on the right side of your mouth and ensure you get enough rest. Please also make sure to wear your occlusal splint properly. Given the current situation, a more detailed diagnosis cannot be provided. Please visit a de...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Joint Disorders After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Causes and Solutions
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello Doctor, I am in the ninth grade this year. Recently, I have noticed a clicking sound in my temporomandibular joint when I open my mouth. I often clench my teeth, which I believe is the root of the problem. I would like to ask a few questions: 1...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, 1. Yes, for temporomandibular joint issues, please visit a dental clinic. 2. The use of an occlusal splint for treatment depends on individual circumstances; it is recommended to schedule an outpatient appointment for diagnosis. 3. You can try to relax, ease the muscle...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Jaw Misalignment: Causes and Solutions for TMJ Issues
The mandible is slightly deviated to the right? During high school, I once fell asleep on a wooden chair with my left cheek resting on the seat. After waking up, I noticed a clicking sound in my left temporomandibular joint (TMJ) whenever I opened my mouth. A few months later, af...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello: You have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, with the right TMJ disc displaced anteriorly, causing the right condyle to slide forward. As the left condyle moves forward and opens wider, it tends to deviate towards the affected side. You may require medication or func...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Misalignment: Causes and Solutions for TMJ Issues
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Teens: Symptoms and Solutions
Is it temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder)? Hello, Doctor! Last year, I noticed that when I eat, my left jaw joint makes a clicking sound, and after chewing for a while, it feels sore but not painful. I have difficulty opening my mouth smoothly and often need to adjust...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, you have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, with dislocation of the articular disc on the left side, causing interference with the movement of the mandible, resulting in clicking sounds. Wearing an occlusal splint should be effective; please consult a dentist for th...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Teens: Symptoms and Solutions
Should You Get a Bite Plate Before or After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
The sequence of using an occlusal splint and wisdom tooth extraction? Hello, I apologize for the inconvenience. I have a question. I am scheduled to get an occlusal splint next week, but I still have a wisdom tooth that hasn't been extracted. It is vertically inclined and ha...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello: Yes, it should be fine and there is no conflict. You can wear the occlusal splint immediately after tooth extraction; just make sure to take impressions before the extraction to prepare the splint in advance. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Chih-Ch...[Read More] Should You Get a Bite Plate Before or After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Pain: What to Do Next
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, Dr. Huang. Three months ago, I experienced severe pain in the area in front of my left ear whenever I moved my mouth slightly, so I went to see a doctor. At that time, I consulted an otolaryngologist, who noted that the cartilage in front of m...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder), which is characterized by the dislocation of the meniscus within the temporomandibular joint. This can cause clicking sounds during jaw movement, inflammation of the synovial bursa, and pain due to ...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Temporomandibular Joint Pain: What to Do Next
Understanding Nighttime Teeth Grinding: Solutions and Concerns
Nighttime bruxism I previously visited a dentist who told me that I grind my teeth at night, causing my teeth to resemble those of a 60 or 70-year-old. He mentioned that I would need a dental guard costing NT$20,000. 1. Is there health insurance coverage for a dental guard for ...
Dr. Zeng Guanghui Reply:
1. To prevent further tooth wear due to bruxism, it is recommended to create an occlusal splint. If severe teeth grinding leads to temporomandibular joint dysfunction and pain, the fabrication of an occlusal splint may be covered by health insurance. 2. Over-the-counter night gua...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Teeth Grinding: Solutions and Concerns
Understanding Left Jaw Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery
Left temporomandibular joint pain? Hello, about a month ago, I noticed that my left cheek hurts when I open my mouth, so I went to a large hospital and visited the emergency department (they referred me to the dental department). Initially, they suggested it might be a temporoman...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Mei, Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is similar to a cold in that it can improve but may still recur. Some individuals may experience bruxism or clenching due to emotional factors or stress, even if they do not grind their teeth at night. In addition to medication, t...[Read More] Understanding Left Jaw Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery
Understanding Tooth Root Residue: Options for Dental Correction and Concerns
Root remnants Doctor, I have four molars that have cavities, causing my adjacent teeth to tilt forward over time, resulting in a slight indentation on my right cheek. I often bite my mouth, and my healing ability seems poor. My upper front teeth are slightly misaligned, leaning t...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Hello, I think it would be best for you to wear the occlusal splint for at least three months to allow the joint to relax. After ensuring there is no malocclusion and you are not frequently biting your cheeks, you can proceed with orthodontic treatment to align your teeth. If the...[Read More] Understanding Tooth Root Residue: Options for Dental Correction and Concerns
Effective Treatments for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Treatment methods for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthritis? How often should an occlusal splint be replaced? Is the currently popular PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy) applicable for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders?
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Linglong, Hello, the material of the occlusal splint is stable and the same as that used for complete dentures. Unless it breaks, there is no need for replacement; it just requires regular adjustments every 3 to 6 months. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is used in orthopedics fo...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Symptoms, Treatments, and FAQs
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you again about my condition. On September 2nd, I mentioned that my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) does not hurt, but when I open my mouth, I have to first open the right side and hear a click, then the left side als...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Zhong Zhong, Hello, you should not wear the occlusal splint while eating; it needs to be removed. There are almost no side effects, and since you are still young, you can wear the occlusal splint for three months and then reassess. This will also help identify the underlyin...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Symptoms, Treatments, and FAQs
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about my temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It doesn't hurt, but when I open my mouth, I have to first open the right side and hear a click, then the left side also clicks, and I can only open my mouth fully in...
Dr. Huang Zhicheng Reply:
Dear Miss Zhong Zhong, Hello, you have a meniscus displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Direct reduction is difficult because it is not a dislocation. Medication treatment or the use of an occlusal splint can be effective, but it may take a longer time since it is c...[Read More] Understanding Temporomandibular Joint Issues: Diagnosis and Treatment Options