Categories: TMJ Dentist

How Is TMJ Treated?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, which for the most part means that someone's jaw is out of alignment. When a jaw is not in its proper alignment there are going to be repercussions, which can vary from mild to extreme. If you happen to be experiencing any of the below jaw-related issues it is possible that you might have this quite common dental dysfunction. In order to be sure you will need to make an appointment with a dental professional who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis.

Are you currently experiencing any headaches? Muscle spasms in the neck area? Pain, discomfort or tenderness around the ears? A tightness in the jaw area? Do you have difficulty chewing or swallowing? Can you hear your jaw joint popping or crackling? If you have any of these symptoms making an appointment with a dental professional in order to receive a proper diagnosis is highly suggested.

Millions of people are affected by this chronic dental condition. Speaking with a professional will allow you to understand what your options are going to be when it comes to treating this all too common jaw disorder.

How do dentists treat TMJ?

While many cases of TMJ are resolved without having to see a professional dentist, some dental patients will need to discuss their available TMJ treatment options with a dental professional in order to find the relief they are seeking.

Non-invasive dental treatment options:

  • Mouth guards are a great option for those who grind or clench their teeth at night.
  • Adjusting a bad bite can often bring relief.
  • Myofunctional therapy refers to the neuromuscular re-education of the facial muscles.
  • TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) therapy uses electrical pulses to stimulate the muscles in order to improve the overall mobility in the jaw.
  • While dental medications are available patients are encouraged to try over the counter medications first.

Invasive dental treatment options:

  • Botox (minimally invasive)
  • Surgery

At home treatment options:

  • Eat soft foods
  • Do facial exercises
  • Massage the muscles in the jaw
  • Avoid chewing gum
  • Avoid eating any hard foods
  • Avoid eating any chewy or sticky foods
  • Avoid extreme jaw movements that involve opening the mouth too wide
  • Sleeping on the back vs. the stomach is advised

Call Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest at (949) 258-7433

If you think that you may be suffering from TMJ, we ask that you call us for the guidance you need so you can get back on track to your good oral health. There are many options when it comes to treating this jaw disorder, which is truly good news as you do not have to continue to live with a dental issue that negatively affects your everyday life. If you need special accommodations or can only make it to an appointment during a certain time of the day, please let us know as we will try our best to accommodate you.

There truly is no time like the present when it comes to taking good care of your oral health!

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/Topics/TMJ/TMJDisorders.htm

Related Posts

What You Should Know About TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorders, refers to a group of issues related to mobility and discomfort around the jaw joints. The temporomandibular joints are the joints that link the lower jawbone (mandible) to the skull. More than any other joint in the body, these flexible joints are constantly in use, performing actions such as…

How To Find Long-term Relief From TMJ Disorder

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, also commonly referred to as TMJ, are a group of conditions that cause pain as well as dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control the movement of the jaw. Although it is not fully known how many people have TMJ disorders, it is estimated that millions of…

How Does A General Dentist Treat TMJ?

TMJ disorder affects the joints on either side of the head, both of which connect to the jaw. When there is any sort of dysfunction, the result is a disorder, which is often diagnosed, treated and managed by a general dentist. Understanding the cause of the TMJ disorder helps the dentist determine the appropriate course…

Does TMJ Cause Jaw Pain?

TMJ disorder is a common issue that can result from teeth grinding and other dental concerns. Most instances are minor, but TMJ that is left untreated can linger or worsen into a more serious issue. Many instances of jaw pain are caused by TMJ, and it is helpful to understand the symptoms of TMJ and…


Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest

Share
Published by
Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest

Recent Posts

What Are the Differences Between a General Dentistry and an Emergency Dentistry Office?

You may have a basic understanding of the differences between general dentistry and an emergency…

3 hours ago

How an Emergency Dentistry Office Can Help You

An emergency dentist is a licensed dentist who focuses on treating dental emergencies, such as…

1 week ago

When Would a Dentist Recommend a Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Officially known as root scaling and planing, deep cleanings are a more extensive form of…

1 week ago

Dentist Near Me: Comprehensive Care for Oral Health

Finding the right general dentist can help maintain good oral health.

1 week ago

Visit an Emergency Dentistry Office if You Are Experiencing Gum Pain

Gum bleeding signifies that you must visit the emergency dentistry office immediately. The dentist will…

2 weeks ago

5 Signs You Need Emergency Dentistry

You may require emergency dentistry services if you experience severe discomfort, severe bleeding, tooth damage,…

3 weeks ago