In this blog post, we explore a clinical case where Dr. Hector successfully relieved a patient’s chronic jaw pain using an Anterior Bite Splint designed with the Medit Splints app.
Identifying the Problem
The patient, a professional heavy lifter, came to the clinic with persistent pain in the jaw, extending from the ear to the TMJ area. This discomfort was coupled with noticeable muscle tension. During the initial examination, it was observed that the patient’s dentition showed signs of wear, a common indicator of excessive clenching or grinding. Despite this, the patient believed his bite was normal because it felt comfortable to him.
The Role of the Anterior Bite Splint
To address the issue, Dr. Hector designed an Anterior Bite Splint using the Medit Splints app. The splint acted as a deprogrammer, helping to reset the patient’s bite.
After just a week of wearing the splint, it became evident that the patient’s natural bite was misaligned. Specifically, his jaw had been forced forward to achieve a proper bite, which led to tension and pain in his muscles and joints.
Treatment and Outcome
The solution in this case was straightforward: the removal of the patient’s wisdom teeth. Once the wisdom teeth were extracted, the patient’s bite aligned correctly without requiring further jaw adjustment. The results were immediate and significant—his symptoms disappeared, and he reported feeling much better.
This case underscores the effectiveness of the Anterior Bite Splint in diagnosing and treating TMJ-related issues. By designing a custom Anterior Bite Splint, Dr. Hector was able to identify and correct the patient’s bite, providing relief from chronic pain. In this instance, a simple, non-invasive treatment led to a complete resolution of symptoms, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans in dental care.
For more insights and to learn how to design your own splint using the Medit Splints app, explore the latest webinar by Dr. Hector on our YouTube channel.
