TMJ
Added: April 24, 2008 - 9:40 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Walnut Creek, CA
Need Dentist / Specialist:
Yes
Provide Cost Estimate:
No
X-rays Available:
Yes
Case Summary
TMJ / Bite Problems
Teeth:
Last Full Mouth X-Ray: 1 month ago
Last Cleaning: 1 month ago
Case Description
I have been experiencing facial pain for several weeks, and am looking for a TMJ specialist in the Walnut Creek/Berkeley area. I am told I have an open bite. The pain worsened recently, and I had an abscessed tooth, followed by a root canal and a crown.
I have been on ibuprofen on and off for over a month and have a sharp pain in my ear. I would like to find a physical therapist to see if that helps.
I am 45. Would you think its a good idea to braces or surgery to correct my open bite?
Thank you for your time and information.
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Reply: TMJ
added: April 25, 2008 - 5:04 AM
Sometimes an infection in a tooth can manifest as pain in the ear. This can be caused by an abscessed tooth or a failing root canal.Your problem may be as simple as that or can indeed be a TMJ issue, which would require a full work-up. Most astute endodontists should be able to diagnose a tooth related source of pain and can refer you to someone if s/he thinks you have a TMJ problem.FYI, just because you have an open bite does not mean you may have a TMJ issue.
Reply: TMJ
added: April 25, 2008 - 8:20 AM
Would have to see how bad your bite is. There are many things that can be done from braces to surgery. Are you grinding? Clenching? We can see if maybe a 24 hour splint can help. It is hard to tell without giving you an exam.
Reply: TMJ
added: April 25, 2008 - 12:53 PM
TMJ cases can be multifaceted. An open bite is usually a result of forward tongue posturing from an upper airway obstruction during development. If this obstruction persists, that is the good place to start. A competent ENT can read a CAT scan (iCAT is a good one and available at many independent dental x ray labs) along with a clinical exam to determine if you still have an upper airway obstruction. As far as the actual issue which is causing pain, I would be happy to meet with you to examine you and give you my professional opinion. If your bite is not ideal, that can give you a whole variety of symptoms, not the least of which is pain. Good luck. Dr. Josh Bernstein
Reply: TMJ
added: April 25, 2008 - 2:12 PM
Hi 45... Without knowing the cause and the case, it''''s hard to know the answer. I do know one thing for sure:If you have an open bite it means that the front teeth aren''''t doing what they are supposed to be doing which is to protect the back teeth from grinding laterally. I highly recommend ortho (surgery last resort).I would be happy to see you for a complimentary consultation if you feel you need a second opinion. Sincerely, Paula
Reply: TMJ
added: April 27, 2008 - 10:15 PM
It appears that you have two problems. The TMJ and the open bite. I am not a TMJ specialist, if that is what you are seeking.It would be beneficial to have a bit more information. What time of the day is the pain the worse? What stimulates the pain? Do you chew gum? Have you had braces in the past? Have you had your wisdom teeth removed? Did the abscessed tooth and its treatment make the problem worse or better? Have you ever had any treatment for TMJ, such as a night guard, splint, massage, medications or relaxation treatments?To determine if you would be better served to have braces or surgery would take the involvement of an orthodontist. If you would like referrals to a TMJ specialist or an orthodontist, please call the office 925-825-1130 Dr. Kent Davis
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