Most TMJ patients are relieved to find that surgery is most often not needed to help them with their TMD issues and that there are often many non-surgical TMJ options. There are certainly some indications for surgery, however, in our office, almost 95% can be treated non-surgically. In fact, more so today than ever before, advanced non-surgical options are available and it is very exciting to help patients in this manner.
Advancements in technology and correctly diagnosing the TMJ problems has helped in treating TMJ non-surgically. The following factors need to be considered to look at the whole picture for patients:
1) Proper use of 3D Imaging: this includes the cervical or neck as well
2) Understanding and properly diagnosing of TMJ disorders
3) Advanced treatment modalities including treatment of postural and cervical muscle issues
4) Use of biomedical computerized jaw analysis: includes electrosonography and electomyography
There are a number of ways to help patients with long term stabilization without surgery, once comfort and the correct physiologic position of the jaw is found. I have personally been discussing and working with orthodontists and oral surgeons to help foster an understanding of how we are able to treat and correct many issues which were previously thought that only surgery would help.
If you have any questions regarding Houston TMJ, please feel free to contact our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF,713-668-2289.
