Short Wave Americans Are Not Going To The Dentist Enough
10 snips
Dec 5, 2025 
Justin Richer, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in TMJ disorders, delves into America’s dental habits. He reveals that 5-10% of the population suffers from TMJ issues, often due to cartilage problems. The discussion highlights the impact of missing teeth on jaw mechanics and the importance of early dental visits for cancer detection. Justin also shares insights on noninvasive treatments and the rarity of surgical interventions, advocating for improved training in dental education to better address these conditions.
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TMJ Disorders Are Common And Impact Daily Life
- Tens of millions of Americans have some form of TMJ disorder, making it a common health issue.
- Justin Richer emphasizes TMD affects daily actions like chewing and speaking and is not niche.
Cartilage Position Drives Most TMJ Problems
- Most TMJ problems stem from a displaced cartilage pad that alters joint movement.
- Justin Richer links popping, clicking, and locking to that cartilage mispositioning.
Missing Teeth Can Cause Jaw Misalignment
- Missing back teeth can change chewing habits and overload one side of the jaw.
- Justin Richer compares the effect to having one leg shorter, causing alignment strain.