TMD Appliances:

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TMD: TemporoMandibular Disorder:

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD), or TMJ syndrome, is an umbrella term covering acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the mandible to the skull. The disorder and resultant dysfunction can result in significant pain and impairment. Because the disorder transcends the boundaries between several health-care disciplines–in particular, dentistry, neurology, physical therapy, and psychology–there are a variety of treatment approaches. At T & S Laboratory, we are actively engaged in continuous education with our laboratory partners around the globe, including surgeries and pain clinics. This enables us to stay abreast of this constantly evolving field. Appliance Design is an integral part of this evolution.

 

Are we making splints or orthotics?

Splint: “A rigid or flexible appliance used to maintain in position a displaced or mobile part or to keep in place and protect an injured part.”

Orthotic: “An orthopedic appliance or apparatus used to support, align, prevent or correct deformities, or to improve the function of movable parts of the body.”

In conclusion, proper diagnosis is the key to effective treatment. The more precise and accurate your diagnosis, the more specific and effective will be the treatment.

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The Olmos Day Appliances are designed to correct skeletal, muscular, tendon and ligament asymmetries. Therefore, it fulfills the criteria for an orthotic. The purpose of all orthotic therapy is to restore function and reduce symptoms, not to restore all of the injured or degenerative components back to their original dimensions and health. The Olmos Day Appliance(s)are fabricated on the mandible for aesthetics and function. If the patient cannot speak with the appliance in place, it is likely that they will not wear the appliance. This is where our team at T & S Laboratory will assist you after proper case analysis has been done, upon receiving your models/impressions. We survey each case to determine whether or not an alternative design is required. That’s just part of our dedicated approach to offering you the best possible outcome.

 

We emphasize the need to take detailed impressions, capturing important landmarks in the mouth including Hammular Notches and Lingual Depth. If dragging occurs using Polyvinyl Siloxane then it can be difficult to guarantee accurate fitting, especially around posterior teeth used for retention (ball clasps,thermoforming, rigid acrylic). Capturing the Hammular Notches are essential for mounting procedures on our Acculiner Apparatus.

 

 

Appliance selection for a given patients needs can only be determined after a comprehensive diagnosis. Therefore, successful appliance selection requires that the prescribing Dentist fully understand the diagnostic protocol associated with the Olmos Series of appliances. Training sessions are conveniently available at varying times throughout the year in the US, Australia and Canada. Click on OLMOS EDUCATION to find out more.