Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) pain can lead to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). Temporomandibular Joint Disorder is a painful and progressive condition in which joint inflammation eats away at the cushioning, and sometimes the bone surrounding the Temporomandibular Joint. According to the National Center for Research, 35 million Americans suffer from TMJ problems.
Dr. Tony Urbanek, a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, has been specializing in the treatment of TMJ/TMD for more than 30 years. Dr. Urbanek noticed a recurring theme when speaking to his surgical patients. After undergoing successful TMJ surgeries, many patients returned — sometimes after six months, a year or even two years later — complaining that their pain had come back.
This information led to further in-depth research and the subsequent development of Dr. Urbanek’s innovative ExplainMyPain medical device (patent pending), which is a splint that’s designed to take the pressure off the back teeth, and off the Temporomandibular Joint. The back teeth are the areas where stress, damage and inflammation to the Temporomandibular Joint occur.
As Dr. Urbanek explains in the video above, his ExplainMyPain device is medical device, not a dental device. “Although it goes in the mouth, it doesn’t have anything to do with what’s in the mouth,” notes Dr. Urbanek. “It doesn’t change the teeth, it doesn’t change the bite, it doesn’t change anything.” Dr. Urbanek says his ExplainMyPain device, or splint, is specifically designed to rest the jaw joint, allowing the inflammation and symptoms of TMJ/TMD to recede.
Dr. Urbanek’s ExplainMyPain device is a splint that looks similar in style to a retainer. It’s custom made, comfortable and discreet. Made of non-porous acrylic, the ExplainMyPain splint only allows only the front teeth to touch, leaving a small space between the back teeth. By creating this space, the patient is no longer able to put pressure on the joint, which relieves the inflammation in the TMJ.
Initially worn 24/7, as pain relief is achieved over time, the patient may begin to wear the device only at night, while sleeping. To see more about Dr. Urbanek’s ExplainMyPain device, click here.
According to Dr. Urbanek, of the 1,000 patients who have used his ExplainMyPain device, on average, 70 percent of them say their TMJ symptoms are gone within the first three weeks; while 96 percent say their symptoms are gone after four months.
Dr. Urbanek’s offices are located in Franklin, TN.
Look for next week’s article when we discuss TMJ/TMD from the patient’s point of view.
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