Independent Orthodontic Report

tractorgirl1

Hello everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I'm seeking some advice and assistance regarding a situation I'm currently facing.

Back in May 2022, I got braces fitted, but in the past six months, I've been experiencing a clicking sensation in my jaw, which might be a symptom of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Initially, I discussed this concern with my private dentist, who has now referred me to the maxillofacial department through the National Health Service (NHS) in our local area.

While I've been trying to address this issue with the orthodontist responsible for my braces, I'm not satisfied with their responses. As a result, I've started a section 75 claim with my credit card provider. To support my claim, I need to submit an independent report prepared by a dental orthodontics specialist. This report should provide an expert opinion on the factors contributing to the development of TMJ.

During my credit card provider's initial research, they directed me to an independent professional website, specifically https://www.jspubs.com/. However, after reaching out to all the providers listed on their website, they have informed me that they are unable to assist.

I've also tried contacting a couple of local orthodontics for advice, but they expressed their regrets in being unable to help. Additionally, I sent an email to the British Orthodontic Society, but I have not received a response.

I feel lost and uncertain about how to obtain the necessary independent orthodontic report. If any of you have experienced a similar situation or have any advice on how to obtain such a report, I would greatly appreciate your guidance.

Thank you all in advance for your help and support.

Toothsmith

There is quite a lot in there.

Being aware of a click in your jaw is a long long way from TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome, a Syndrome is a collection of specific symptoms of which you just seem to have a mild version of one?

I personally wouldn't refer anyone to max fax just with a mild click, especially as orthodontic treatment, I would say, is quite likely to give you a mild click whilst your bite moves around a bit and things alter. I would have thought that a few months after treatment had finished, this would all settle down by itself.

There are also many other reasons why a jaw might develop a slight click at any point in anyone's life. I don't think any expert witness would be able to produce a report that said this click was directly caused by orthodontic treatment - which is most likely why you're finding no-one can really help you. 

What did the orthodontist treating you say that made you want your money back anyway? If they were just trying to reassure you that it would probably all settle down at the end of treatment, then I would tend to agree with them. I appreciate there are ways of doing things though, and they might not have done it in a very reassuring way? 

tractorgirl1

I appreciate your prompt response. My main concern revolves around the lack of acknowledgment and attention to my communication regarding the issue with my braces. Whenever I bring up the clicking sensation in my jaw, the practice staff seem dismissive and nonchalant, merely repeating my concern without offering any substantial response.

During my initial interaction, I was advised to "google it" which left me feeling unsupported and unheard. Subsequent discussions with them often quickly veer towards discussing the aesthetics of my teeth and the progress of the orthodontic treatment, rather than addressing the underlying structural aspects, which are causing me discomfort.

Before getting braces, I never experienced these sensations, and it's challenging not to link them to the braces and their effect on my jaw. The difficulties I now face while chewing and the instances of my jaw 'locking' open, making it hard to close, have become concerning. As advised by my dentist, how long is it reasonable to perform jaw exercises and eat a soft diet for? I've been doing it for 6 months.

I understand that my emotions may play a part in my perceptions, but I believe it is essential for the practice to take my concerns seriously and investigate the potential connection between the braces and the issues I am experiencing. A thorough examination and proper attention to this matter would provide me with the assurance and support I need during this orthodontic journey, which they have far from provided.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Toothsmith

Ok. Jaw locking is another symptom, and a more serious one.

You're probably looking in the wrong place looking for help though. Look for a dentist who likes dealing with TMJ problems. 

https://bsos.org.uk/tmd-faqs/

This is a useful page and might be able to point you towards someone who could help.