Tour of the TMJ (Part 2/2) - The Unhealthy TMJ 

That can vary widely depending on the type of splint required and the amount of support the dentist includes in the price of the splint. Several different problems can be eased by the use of splints, each one requiring a slightly different design and most of them require adjustments over a period of a few months when the lower lateral pterygoid muscle becomes more used to relaxing and allows the condyle to settle further back. We did a survey a few years ago on what dentists charged for splints and it varied from $500 to $4,000 with averages in the $1,400 to $1,700 range. However, it's not an item to be purchased based on price. It's more important that you are confident the dentist understands your problem and has a plan to give you a long term solution that works for you. If a $500 appliance doesn't give you full or long-term relief, you may be paying thousands for crowns or more major restoration work. If a $1,700 appliance delivers pain relief, confirms what a long-term solution should be, prevents further tooth breakages and gives you a year or two to plan for permanent work, you might see it as a great investment.

@@BiteFX thanks for all that information much needed!!🙏🏽🙏🏽

@@BiteFX another question sorry, will a splint work if I’m suffering from arthritis?

@@AL-mb4gs I checked with one of the TMJ specialists that advises BiteFX and his answer was "it may" and went on to explain: The splint’s goal is to create an environment of less pressure on the TMJ. It’s somewhat like crutches for a sprained ankle, it takes some pressure off the joint. The splint doesn’t do the healing part, the person’s body has that responsibility. The splint creates better conditions for healing, the body heals according to its capacity to repair or adapt. So some patients heal great, others less. A well made splint does its job. Hope that helps.

@@BiteFX that’s great information thank you So do would you recommend a splint in this situation? Or what treatment will be necessary for this situation??