The seventh key to facial beauty and TMJ health: proper condylar position. Part 3.
This is the eleventh article in a series of articles on orthodontic diagnosis. Only a proper diagnosis can lead to the correct treatment for an individual patient--leading to a balanced profile, a beautiful smile, and a healthy TMJ. This article is to document the first phase of TMJ treatment in patients who are being treated for TMJ Dysfunction related to posterior and/or superior TMJ displacement, and the change in the mandibular position and dental relationships that almost always occurs with proper treatment. The illusion of a posterior openbite "supposedly created" by the splint has led to much misunderstanding and unhappiness with both patients and family dentists. The real "cause" of this posterior openbite and treatment procedures to correct it will be discussed.