In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of listening skills when answering multiple patient questions, particularly for those dealing with pain. The main focus is on a patient's inquiry about displaced discs, the need for an MRI, and whether orthodontic elastics can contribute to displacing a disc. The patient, with limited jaw opening (30mm, 20mm too little) and a slight joint noise, seeks clarity on these issues.
We break down the question into simple, understandable parts. The key...
In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of listening skills when answering multiple patient questions, particularly for those dealing with pain. The main focus is on a patient's inquiry about displaced discs, the need for an MRI, and whether orthodontic elastics can contribute to displacing a disc. The patient, with limited jaw opening (30mm, 20mm too little) and a slight joint noise, seeks clarity on these issues.
We break down the question into simple, understandable parts. The key takeaway? The bite directly affects joint position. When the bite changes, so does the joint position. While this shift is generally tolerated during orthodontic treatment, everything needs to be in harmony once the treatment is complete. If bite and joint position aren’t aligned, serious problems can arise, leading to long-term pain and damage.
We emphasize the importance of dentists having a clear understanding of the proper jaw-to-jaw relationship before starting any orthodontic treatment. Pam always begins with a neuromuscular orthotic to create a "blueprint" for the correct joint and bite alignment, ensuring that treatment is geared toward optimal results.
If you've ever had, are currently wearing, or are considering braces, this podcast is a must-listen. Braces done without considering the critical relationship between the bite and joint can lead to a lifetime of pain and destruction. We also offer valuable advice on how to find the right dentist for your orthodontic treatment.
In a second question, we discuss other orthodontic issues, like why teeth shift so quickly, the importance of addressing the root causes, and how lip and tongue posture affect treatment outcomes. We even cover why some people develop a gummy smile and the strange connection between orthodontic issues and ear pressure changes, like those felt when driving through mountains.
Join us as we explore these vital topics and more in a way that’s easy to understand and directly helpful to anyone navigating orthodontic treatment.
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