TMJ Hyper and Hypomobility: Causes and Management, with Dr. Ben Hechler

Joining Dr. Stucki once again is Dr. Benjamin Hechler, an OMS practicing in North Carolina. On this episode, we wanted to circle back and dive deeper into TMD and TMJ hyper and hypomobility. The conversation kicks off with Dr. Hechler unpacking some of the common causes behind TMJ hypomobility, the definition of a closed lock (CL) including an overview of acute CL and chronic CL, with a quick reference to the anchor-disc phenomenon. We also look at the different flavors of TMJ hypermobility and various types of dislocations. Dr. Hechler details his technique with awake patients, why imaging would be indicated for TMJ mobility, and then delves into a detailed explanation of his approach to TMJ mobility treatment. To hear more about our thoughts on TMJ mobility issues caused by being in the dental chair, our tips and tricks for avoiding them, and what could tip the scale toward a more permanent management solution for these types of issues, be sure to start listening now! 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Our goal for today’s episode: TMJ hyper and hypomobility with Dr. Ben Hechler.
• Dr. Hechler unpacks some of the causes behind TMJ hypomobility. 
• He defines what is a closed lock (CL).
• The difference between acute CL and chronic CL.
• A quick look at the anchor-disc phenomenon.
• Dr. Hechler highlights some different flavors of TMJ hypermobility (and dislocations).
• He details his technique to get an awake patient back into the proper TMJ relationship.
• We dive into a discussion on when imaging is required for TMJ mobility.
• He explicitly details his approach to treatment for this demographic of TMJ patients.
• His thoughts on how often TMJ mobility issues are caused by being in the dental chair.
• Dr. Stucki shares some of his tips on avoiding dental chair TMJ mobility issues.
• TMJ mobility management: when does the scale tip toward a more permanent management/treatment?
• The multifactorial aspect of connecting patient characteristics and our capabilities as surgeons to formulate the best possible plan.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Ben Hechler — https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hechler 

Episode 236: Perspectives on Management of TMJ Disease, with Dr. Michael Miloro —https://www.buzzsprout.com/1404670/14614031-perspectives-on-management-of-tmj-disease-with-dr-michael-miloro 

KLS Martin Promo Code: StuckiFavs

KLS Martin Email — usa@klsmartin.com 

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ 

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ 

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059