I went to see a dentist for TMJ symptoms and he is saying I need dental crowns to fix it. I don’t understand how dental crowns on healthy teeth can fix TMJ.
Betty
Dear Betty,
It is possible he is talking about a full-mouth reconstruction, which is one method of dealing with TMJ Disorder. However, I am concerned that this is what your dentist is jumping to first. There are several more conservative options that should have been tried first. Based on your description above, it sounds like your dentist immediately jumped to one of the most invasive treatments possible.
However, before doing that, I want you to get a second opinion from another dentist. A full-mouth reconstruction involves placing dental crowns on every tooth. This is one of the most advanced procedures in dentistry and I would like to be certain you actually need it.
If it turns out you do end up needing that full-mouth reconstruction make sure whatever dentist you go to has the training necessary to do it correctly. A prosthodontist or another dentist with advanced post-doctoral TMJ training would be a good option.
You will also want to be certain he cares about aesthetics as well. You don’t have to substitute function for form. You can have both. Here is how you can make certain you get it. When you are deciding on your dentist make sure they are willing to place the crowns with a temporary try-in paste. If you are not thrilled with how the dental crowns look, then they need to be willing to send them back to the lab and make any requested changes.
This blog is brought to you by San Antonio Dentist Dr. Tostado.