<![CDATA[Proper treatment for TMJ involves a lot of steps and different processes. From the consultation to using a ULF-TEN to relax the jaw muscles, and even being fitted for a bite splint, a lot of time and work is invested in TMJ treatment for both the dentist and the patient. However, we all know that not every treatment is going to be perfect for everyone. Because of this, patients may become frustrated at the fact that nothing seems to be curing their TMJ or alleviating the symptoms.
Heidi Clark, her face swollen from surgery, embraces her daughter Marisa in 2000. Image from JSOnline.com.Patients sometimes research new treatment methods on their own and they may come across something known as jaw implants. These implants, which have been around since the 1980s, are used by implanting an entirely new, but artificial jaw joint. As drastic as it sounds, the surgery has proven to be a success for some, but not many. Often times this type of surgery fails simply because there isn’t enough education and research done on it to perfect it or at least make it safer for patients to have. Also since they are sometimes placed early in life, the wear and tear really adds up quickly.
Those who have decided to get jaw implants may suffer from various complications from scar tissue to basic scars and even disfigurement. Some have stated that the surgery didn’t provide any relief at all and that their pain has only increased. See this tragic story.
Remember, just because something is an option doesn’t mean it is the best out there. Before deciding on jaw implants to possibly treat your TMJ, you’ll want to speak with an experienced and qualified neuromuscular surgeon who knows all about jaw alignment and the treatments for TMJ. Jaw surgery is extremely invasive and is saved for those TMJ sufferers who can’t find relief anywhere, and even then the surgery is a last resort attempt.]]>
