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Structural
analysis is an evaluation of TMJ related issues such as "TMJoint" Dysfunction
within the jaw area. The joint disease that one in five have and don't know
it.
The
Temporomandibular Joint is right in front of each ear and is where the lower
jaw (mandible) hinges to the skull (temporal) bone on each side.
This
disease entity is often misdiagnosed because it is frequently accompanied by
referred pain to the ear, head, neck, face, and/or back. Although other
symptoms such as clicking in the joints, tinnitus(ringing in the ears),
dizziness, or hearing loss may also be present, structural evaluation should be
employed to diagnose this syndrome conclusively.
Anyone
exhibiting one or more of the a aforementioned symptoms may utilize the
following checklist to determine the need for advice from a dentist, concerning
a TMJoint problem.
- Are there any
wisdom teeth present?
- Does a removable
denture need relining?
- Is adequate chewing
efficiency present on one side only?
- Do the upper front
teeth overlap or completely cover the lower front teeth while closing on the
back teeth?
- Is there an
observable facial asymmetry with one eye noticeably higher than the
other?
- Are there any
unreplaced missing teeth?
- Do the teeth feel
locked in place upon closure?
- Are any teeth or
crowns flatter or more worn down than they should be?
- Does a bad bite
(malocclusion) or a cross bite exist?
- Does only one tooth
touch when closing very gently while lying on your back?
Because
auditory-related problems are common in this syndrome, more otolarygologists
refer TMJoint patients to dentists than any other specialist. The contiguity of
the TM Joint to the ear plus the existence of the little known Pinto's
(mandibular-malleolar) ligament, that connects the articular head of the lower
jaw with the malleus bone inside the ear, helps to explain these problems
despite the absence of any discernible inner ear pathology. Isn't it
interesting to ponder the fact that all of the symptoms mentioned here are not
only related to this TMJoint syndrome but are also repeatedly blamed on that
inevitable, inexplicable aging process?
At
DeFelice Family Dentistry you will be fully informed of your options and the
investment involved in completing a full structural evaluation and course of
treatment. |
