801-756-0900If you have a TMJ disorder, Dr. Carl McMillan and Dr. Ryan Hart may be able to treat your condition without surgery. We begin each treatment process with a thorough examination and tomography (X-ray) to determine the origin of your TMJ and the best services for your specific needs. If possible, our doctors may recommend an oral appliance to reduce pain and treat your TMJ disorder.
Oral appliances (also known as splints, bite planes, and orthotics) are mouthpieces that can be placed on the upper and lower teeth to reduce TMJ symptoms and discomfort. TMJ Therapy offers several types of customizable oral appliances. Common styles that we offer are:
- True Function: Similar to the Gelb with the addition of guiding lingual wings, this appliance is good for increased jaw stabilization and retraining function of muscles of mastication.
- Hawley Headache: This appliance is intended for someone with muscle and/or fascial pain but with a healthy temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It is great for tension headaches, myofascial pain disorder of the head, neck and jaw, and correcting posture. Risks: Long-term or overuse can result in an anterior open bite.
- The Gelb: This appliance, named after Dr. Michael Gelb, is a mandibular appliance that is designed to treat misaligned joint discs. This appliance compresses the discs into proper position.
- The Mora: The mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance (Mora) can reposition the lower jaw to restore muscular balance. It utilizes acrylic bite pads that cover the molars and surrounding teeth.
The length of time required to wear an oral appliance will be determined by our doctor.
