TMJ Disorder
The temporo-mandibular joint joins your mandible to the base of your skull. It is the most complex joint in your body, allowing hinge movement, forward and back movement, and sliding side-to-side. There are a number of complications that can arise in its function, and it can become a source of persistent pain. Problems with this joint are lumped into a disorder called TMJ dysfunction or TMJ disorder. Here are some of the symptoms:
- Persistent headaches
- Other pain in the face or neck area
- Noises such as clicking or popping in your jaw joint
- Limitation of movement in your jaw
- Ringing in the ears
- Earaches
- Teeth being worn down
- Clicking and popping of the jaw joint
- Extensive tooth wear
Treatment for TMJ Dysfunction
Often, the treatment for TMJ problems can be a simple appliance that is worn at night to relieve the stress on your jaw muscles. Sometimes, however, the problem is complicated and deep-seated, and a full-mouth rehabilitation may be needed. Dr. Marion has extensive training in TMJ treatment, including graduating from the Pankey Institute in Florida where he received post-graduate training in complex restorative dentistry.
Is a Full Mouth Restoration Right for You?
Full-mouth reconstruction (FMR) is necessary for people who have experienced some kind of trauma or disease that completely devastated their smiles.
You may need full-mouth rehabilitation if you have suffered from:
- TMJ disorder
- A serious injury to your mouth and/or jaw
- An advanced oral disease such as tooth decay or periodontitis
- Severe enamel wear
- A congenital abnormality that left your teeth underdeveloped
The goal of FMR is to restore both the function and beauty of teeth. It’s ideal for anyone who wants nice-looking teeth they can comfortably chew with after suffering from dental pain and embarrassment for months or years.
Your FMR will start with a visit to a restorative dentist like Dr. Marion for a full dental exam and treatment plan. Dr. Marion will carefully assess your dental needs and recommend the procedures necessary to restore every tooth in your mouth.
Depending on your situation, your full-mouth reconstruction may include a combination of procedures such as:
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Veneers
- Implants
Training for Full-Mouth Reconstruction by Dr. Marion
When the entire mouth is re-built, the process is very complex. The dental school curriculum doesn’t adequately address this level of treatment, and there are several post-graduate institutes that have been set up to provide this training. The one that is best known is the L.D. Pankey Institute on Key Biscayne in Florida. Dr. Marion is a graduate of the Dawson Master’s Program at the Pankey Institute.
In addition, Dr. Marion has achieved the level of Associate with the American Society of Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry.
Part of Dr. Marion’s philosophy in dentistry is that you can’t have beauty without function nor function without beauty. The two elements must coexist in a healthy smile, so if you need full-mouth restoration, Dr. Marion’s goal is to give you both an attractive and a well-functioning smile.
Do you think you need full-mouth reconstruction because of TMJ dysfunction or another problem? If you’re looking for a second opinion on the procedures you need, then Dr. Marion will be happy to take a quick look for no charge. You can then decide if you want a comprehensive dental exam.
Call the office, or click here to request an appointment with Dr. Marion where you can learn more about FMR.