Do removable partial dentures for 2 teeth cause TMJ disorder? Please help!

The real answer is no, rpd's do not cause TMD. TMD is a result of trauma that causes a displacement of the disc between the skull and the head of the jaw. Period.

It is possible that an RPD or removable partial denture could influence your TMJ (Tempromandibular Joint). However, without any signs or symptoms currently, it is very unlikely. A more concerning effect of an RPD is "potential" damage to the adjacent teeth and underlying bone. If you wear an RPD, even a temporary, it can significantly reduce bone volume for implants. You may have abundant bone... and that wouldn't be a problem, but if you are like most, you have adequate bone that could become inadequate. By the way, opening your mouth for a dental cleaning or yawning could be a factor influencing the TMJ. Also, placing the dental implants can stress the TMJ but saying any of these acts "caused it" is impossible to prove. Be smart and go with your gut... you are on the right track asking questions. I personally would not wear partials, get your implants as soon as the bone is healed, and have them restored as soon as the implants have healed. You could buy a little time in there but remember the teeth will drift into the space if left alone for a longer time. If money is the concern, look into Carecredit - they have no interest financing options.Hank D. Michael, DMD