The temporomandibular joint is a very important area of the human body, because it plays a role in critical functions, such as talking and chewing. Unfortunately, when problems affect this particular part of the body, the impact can be serious. TMJ disorder affects countless Americans, who endure chronic pain, headaches, jaw locking, jaw popping, chewing difficulties and more. Since they are so desperate for help, some patients submit to complex surgical procedures which often prove painful and scary. That being said, for the vast majority of people, this drastic strategy is usually unnecessary.
TMJ Surgery
Since it is especially invasive, surgery inspires fear in people who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder. Surgical strategies may vary based on the surgeon and patient. For example, while some strategies focus on the removal of tissue; others can make serious alterations that remain permanent.
Seven years ago, the Food and Drug Administration approved a prosthetic jaw joint which surgeons now use to treat patients suffering from severe temporomandibular joint issues. Marketed as the Lorenz TMJ replacement system, this artificial joint aims to restore normal jaw function by replacing natural bone and tissue. Invented by Peter Quinn of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, the prosthetic joint passed various trials involving just under 300 subjects. That said, like other implants, this particular artificial joint results in irreversible alterations that patients must live with for the rest of their lives, whether they’ve experienced any sort of relief or not.
A Drastic Treatment
Some people’s TMJ disorder is so severe, they feel they have no choice but to submit to invasive, painful surgeries. In reality, however, most people who suffer from this disorder can enjoy lasting relief through noninvasive dental intervention.
Dr. Berry offers his patients lasting TMJ relief by providing treatments that focus on the source of the disorder: a bad bite. Once this issue is addressed, symptoms typically disappear; and patients can enjoy happy lives free from the debilitating symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorder.
Don’t muddle through life enduring a constant struggle against TMJ disorder, when a comfortable, non-invasive treatment strategy can bring you lasting relief. To learn more, please call (303) 691-0267 at the TMJ Therapy & Sleep Center of Colorado in Denver today.
