"The Perils of TMJ: Chronic Pain, Metal Jaws, and Ineffective Treatments"
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) afflict up to 33 million Americans, with many patients enduring numerous surgeries and futile treatments, including metal jaw replacements, due to the misunderstood and under-researched nature of the condition. Severe symptoms, predominantly affecting women, can lead to chronic pain and limited jaw function. The lack of effective treatments and the historical dismissal of TMJ disorders have left patients feeling trapped in escalating care with diminishing hope. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have highlighted the inadequacy of current treatments and the need for better education, research funding, and improved care for TMJ disorders.