TMJ Archives - Page 2 of 2 - The Wealthy Dentist

Headache Relief from NTI? Some Dentists Say Yes

The NTI-tss is a small oral splint used to treat headaches, TMJ disorder, and teeth grinding. This survey found that two out of three dentists offer the NTI splint. Only 6% report that they do not offer any splint options.

“NTI’s cause open bite issues and damage the TMJs,” warned one, while another said, “Great service for fast relief of many issues!”

Here’s what else dentists had to say about the NTI…

“They work great! I have personally worn one for over 4 years and my migraine headaches are a thing of the past.” (Tennessee dentist)

“I think the NTI does more damage than good. It is only for immediate pain relief, not as long term appliance.” (California prosthodontist)
“There is not data showing the NTI to be better than other types of splints.” (Massachusetts dentist)
“I would not recommend and NTI for any condition. I think a full arch splint is necessary.” (California dentist)
“NTI is a great service for fast relief of many issues.” (Pennsylvania dentist)
“NTI’s cause open bite issues and long-term damage to the TMJ’s.” (Texas dentist)
“Small enough to be aspirated. Too Dangerous. Yeah, I know they’ve been used a lot, but all it takes is one lawsuit. One lawsuit for a Nesbit bridge was enough to stop making them.” (Michigan dentist)

Read the complete survey results and more comments…

TMJ Treatment Available from 4 of 5 Dentists

February 2, 2009 By Jim Du Molin

Four out of five dentists in this survey report that they treat TMJ/TMD patients. The remainder refer them out to a specialist.

Dentists reported charging anywhere from $500 to $40,000 for treatment. Of course, there are a wide variety of treatment options available, and each method has its own price tag.

“Emotionally rewarding, but financially unrewarding. Once patients are out of pain, they’re miraculously out of money!” complained one dentist.

Here are some more comments:

“Over 50% of the adult population needs this treatment, and many will accept if presented properly.” (Connecticut dentist)
“Due to the excessive costs for TMJ treatment by colleagues, I feel I have to provide some affordable treatment options to these patients.” (Florida dentist)
“Treating lifestyle and stress are huge factors in successfully treating these people.” (North Carolina dentist)
“I refer them out to a prosthodontist.” (Illinois dentist)
“TMJ treatment should be a recognized specialty by the ADA.” (Arkansas dentist)
“Patient must be nearly pain-free before definite orthodontic treatment is begun.” (Nebraska orthodontist)
“I am so fortunate to be one block away from a TMJ specialist so I often refer my patients with TMD to him!!” (Alabama dentist)
“Conservative appliance therapy takes about 6 months.” (Arkansas dentist)
“Poor return for time spent, but a great service to needy patients.” (Missouri dentist)
“You have to know what you are doing. One must be able use MRI and CT scans, drugs and splint therapy.” (Maryland dentist)
“Docs who do not truly understand the field should take a lot of continuing dental education.” (Illinois dentist)
“The various treatment modalities are confusing, and many are not supported by credible research.” (Nevada periodontist)