In most cases, TMJ disorder occurs due to jaw misalignment and can be treated with the realignment of your jaws in the optimal position. At Carlsbad Beach Dental, Drew Addy DDS, we recommend The Kois Deprogrammer, also known as The Freedom Appliance, to correct your jaw misalignment and bite problems, providing relief from jaw pains and the TMJ disorder symptoms. Dr. Addy carefully constructs the retainer according to your specific oral anatomy to ensure quick and effective results.
The Freedom Appliance is a simple orthodontic retainer that repositions your oral anatomy over an extended period. Like any other orthodontic aligner, you have to wear the device for 2 to 3 weeks for almost 24 hours a day, removing it only during your meals and oral hygiene time. You can take the retainers off when you’re brushing, flossing, or eating, but it must be worn at all other times. The plastic retainer covers the hard palate, positioned against the root of the mouth. It’s secured in place with a wire that goes around your teeth, thereby deprogramming the tense jaw muscles. It prevents your teeth from touching and grinding against each other, allowing your jaw muscles to gradually relax. Over time, the jaw settles into the optimal position, and the muscle memory of clenched jaws fades away.
After approximately one month, your jaws and mouth will maintain the same point of contact as to when you’re wearing the Freedom Appliance, signifying the end of the treatment. Your muscles will stop making your teeth clench and grind against each other, and you’ll feel immense relief around the jaws. Patients undergoing the Kois deprogrammer treatment note a marked improvement in their quality of life due to optimal bite positioning. The Kois deprogrammer is also incredibly easy to clean and maintain. You can simply clean it with toothpaste and warm water while brushing your teeth.
