A member asked:

What do you think is better a orthodontist or a dentist for tmj splint?

21 doctors weighed in across 11 answers

Either: Either should be able to help. If the general dentist is not comfortable treating your problem he will refer you to a specialist.

Answered 4/15/2019

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Dr. Shawn Murray answered

Specializes in Dentistry

TMJ Splints: Many general dentist get upset with this type of question so i'll try to be sensitive. Orthodontist are specialists so they have more training; however, some dentist have taken additional trainings that make them capable to treat patients very well with splints. Have either one evaluate the TMJ thoroughly with an exam, x-rays of the joint. Not all TMJ issues are fixed with a splint alone.

Answered 6/10/2014

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Dr. Steven Bender answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Depends: A dentist who has had advanced training in orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders is best equiped to manage these disorders. Orthodontic training alone does not typicaly adequetly train the practitioner to be fully competant in this field of dentistry.

Answered 12/16/2015

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Dr. Kenneth Zipkin answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Good ?: The one who knows most about treatment.

Answered 10/4/2016

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Dr. Louis Sterling answered

Specializes in Prosthodontics

Depends: Depends on which doctor has more experience and has had better results.

Answered 3/21/2015

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Dr. John Van der Werff answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Diagnosis: Before having a splint made make sure you have been given a diagnosis. Different splints treat different types of problems. There are over 100 different types. And the wrong splint may make things worse or be of no help.

Answered 3/21/2015

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TMJ trained Dr.: Few orthodontists or general dentists have the advanced training required for thorough diagnosis and treatment of tmj/tmd issues. This field covers a broad array of problems, from structural issues of the joints, to neuritis, muscle issues, sleep apnea problems, overlapping neck and lower spine problems, etc. It takes significant education and experience to dianose and treat. Find a TMJ dentist.

Answered 12/10/2015

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Depends: The doctor who exhibits the greatest quality in diagnosis and rates of success in treatment. A poorly trained orthodontist would be a bad choice, and conversely a gp with extensive continuing education and good success rates would be much better. Obviously each situation and doctor is different and requires some research on your part. Good luck.

Answered 8/30/2013

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Orthodontist: but please realize that TMJ treatment is still not an exact science and some procedures work for some people and not others. There are no guarantees when it comes to TMJ

Answered 1/13/2015

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Dr. Louis Gallia answered

Specializes in Surgery - Oral & Maxillofacial

Either, neither: Depends on the dentist's experience and training. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.

Answered 3/20/2015

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Depends: There is no Dental Specialty called "TMJ.". Many Dentists, Oral Surgeons, Periodontists, etc., have extensive training and experience in treating patients with TMJ symptoms. Many choose to refer rather than to treat. Ask around, seek consultations, eventually you will find the perfect fit for you.

Answered 4/29/2015

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Related Questions

A member asked:

I have tmj, but i can't see a dentist what do I do?

11 doctors weighed in across 4 answers