Overview: This article provides instructions for fitting, adjusting, cleaning, and removing Dandy TMD Appliances, including important safety warnings and contraindications.
Fitting the TMD Appliance
The dental staff or dentist must remove the TMD Appliance from its packaging and rinse the device under water before initial placement. Place the TMD Appliance in the patient’s mouth to check for proper fit and function.
Adjusting for Fit
The prescribing dentist must perform all adjustments to the TMD Appliance. Any necessary adjustments should be made chairside to ensure the patient is satisfied with the new device's fit and function.
Operating the Appliance
Cleaning the Device
Users must brush the TMD Appliance with a toothbrush before each use to maintain hygiene.
Storing the Device
When the TMD Appliance is not in use, dry the device and store it in the provided storage case.
Removing the Appliance
To remove the TMD Appliance properly, use both index fingers to pull down the front area of the upper appliance. Do not pull down the back of the device, as this may cause the appliance to break.
For the Dawson B-splint specifically, follow these steps:
Pull down the front area of the upper appliance first.
Pull up the front area of the lower appliance second.
Maintenance and Replacement
TMD Appliances typically have a product life of 2 to 3 years. Replace the device if you notice the following signs:
Cracks appearing in the acrylic material.
Failure of the device to maintain proper retention in the patient’s mouth.
Safety Information
Contraindications
If a patient has undergone surgery to treat TMD or TMJ issues, any further treatment with TMD Appliances must be prescribed by the surgeon.
Warnings
The use of TMD Appliances may result in the following:
Tooth movement or changes in dental occlusion.
Gingival or dental soreness.
Pain or soreness in the temporomandibular joint.
Obstruction of oral breathing.
Excessive salivation.
ADA Codes
| Occlusal Guards | ||
| Night Guard - Occlusal Guard by Report | D9940 | Occlusal Guard by Report |
| Sports Guard - Fabrication of Athletic Mouthguard | D9941 | Fabrication of Athletic Mouthguard |