How Your Dentist Can Treat TMJ Symptoms
Do you have a problem with clenching your jaw? Are you dealing with headaches, neck pain, fatigue, or ear ringing? These might be symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, more commonly known as TMJ disorder.
If you have been struggling with chronic jaw pain, muscle pain, or face pain and are looking for relief, you need to visit your dentist to learn what they can do to help.
In reality, your dentist can provide you with specialized TMJ treatment that you probably won’t be able to find anywhere else. Read on to learn how a respected dentist can help treat TMJ symptoms and relieve you.
Table of Contents
Occlusal Analysis
Dentists are able to diagnose and treat TMJ by assessing the symptoms and performing an Occlusal Analysis. This evaluation includes examining the teeth for signs of wear, the presence of any misalignment, and the bite.
The dentist will also assess the jaw muscles and assess the range of motion of the jaw. Treatment options for TMJ include splint therapy, which helps to realign the jaw and stabilize the muscles, and botox injections, which can help to relax the muscles.
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Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers
Several over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to treat TMJ symptoms. This medication can help reduce the inflammation and pain that come with TMJ. It can also help to improve your overall jaw function.
These include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin. Your dentist can also prescribe a more potent pain reliever if necessary.
Use Splints or Mouthguards
There are a few different treatments your dentist can do in order to help with signs of TMJ.
One standard treatment is for your dentist to use splints or mouthguards. It helps to keep your teeth from grinding against each other and prevents your jaw from getting overworked.
Splint therapy involves wearing a mouthguard-like appliance that helps to keep your jaw in a comfortable position and prevents it from moving too much.
Perform Botox Injections
Your dentist can treat TMJ symptoms by performing Botox injections. Botox helps to relax the muscles in the face and jaw, which can help to reduce pain and teeth grinding.
Your dentist will usually recommend a course of treatments. These may include massage, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques.
Undergo Surgery
One of the most common treatments for TMJ symptoms is surgery. Many different types of surgery can be used to treat TMJ. The kind that is best for you will depend on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your TMJ.
Surgery can repair damage to the joint, realign the jaw, or reduce the joint’s size. In some cases, the joint may need to be removed and replaced with an artificial one.
Surgery is often effective in relieving TMJ symptoms, but it is not always necessary. If your symptoms are mild and not interfering with your daily life, your dentist may recommend conservative treatment options such as bite guards or splints.
Treat TMJ Today
If you’re suffering from TMJ symptoms, your dentist can help. They will assess your situation and develop a treatment plan that is best for you.
In severe cases, they might suggest you undergo surgery. Don’t suffer in silence; talk to your dentist today about how they can help you treat TMJ.
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