TMJ Treatment: The Basics

Dental

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that affects the joints that connect your jaw to your skull. These joints allow you to move your jaw up and down, side to side, and forward and backward. TMJ disorder can cause pain in your jaw and surrounding muscles, as well as clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw. In severe cases, it can even lead to the dislocation of the joint. Fortunately TMJ pain treatments are available.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMJ disorder, there are a variety of TMJ pain treatments available that can help alleviate the symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of TMJ treatment so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of TMJ disorder, including:

  • Arthritis or other degenerative joint diseases
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Excessive gum chewing
  • Poor dental alignment
  • Trauma to the jaw or surrounding muscles
  • Stress

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The most common symptom of TMJ disorder is pain in the jaw or surrounding muscles. This pain can be constant or come and go, and it may worsen when you chew, talk, or open your mouth wide. Other symptoms include:

Clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw
Lockjaw (jaw stuck in one position) – Muscle spasms in the jaw
Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing – Earache – Headache – Dizziness

Treatments for TMJ Disorder

If this is a condition you suffer from, you’re probably thinking what is the treatment for TMJ?

There are several treatment options available for TMJ disorder, including both conservative and surgical options.

Conservative treatments include:

  • Ice packs to reduce swelling
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Mouth guards or splints to prevent teeth grinding
  • Physical therapy exercises

Stress management techniques such as relaxation therapy or biofeedback Surgery is usually only considered if conservative treatments haven’t been effective in alleviating symptoms.

Surgical options for treating TMJ disorder include:

  • Arthroscopy (surgery using a tiny camera inserted into the joint)
  • Arthrocentesis (draining fluid from the joint)
  • Open joint surgery

When considering any type of treatment for TMJ disorder, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits with your doctor or dentist so that you can make the best decision for your individual needs.

Conclusion:

If you’re suffering from symptoms of TMJ disorder, there are several treatment options available to help alleviate your pain. While surgery is an option for some people, many people find relief through conservative treatments such as ice packs, mouth guards, and physical therapy exercises. Markham 7 Dental is an experienced TMJ clinic that can help determine the best options for your condition.

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