Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is a common condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. It Is caused by a disorder known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which causes muscles and joints to become misaligned. TMJ pain can worsen at night or when your mouth is closed and can last for months or years. It often causes other symptoms such as stiffness, headaches, numbness, or tingling in the neck, ears, and face. TMJ treatments are available through various Commack TMJ/TMD medical professionals, including dentists, optometrists, and orthodontists. If you are experiencing TMJ pain and looking for ways to relieve it, consider trying one of these five medical treatments.
1. Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is a low-level, painless treatment that uses sound waves to treat muscle and joint pain. It can effectively treat TMJ disorders like jaw arthritis, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), and trigger the thumb.
This treatment produces a vibration that stimulates your nerves to produce chemicals such as endorphins that improve your moods and feelings. Ultrasound Therapy can reduce inflammation in the joints by triggering an immune response against proteins found on cartilage surfaces that cause damage over time.
2. Botox Injections
Botox injections are treatments that relax the jaw muscles through injections. They can also reduce pain by blocking nerve impulses that cause discomfort. Botox injections are usually temporary, but they can relieve your jaw for several months after just one session. You might need to go for re-injections after a stipulated time for effective relief. However, consult your doctor to find other solutions or treatments if you want a long-term solution to your TMJ pain.
3. Surgery
Surgery is usually a last-resort treatment for TMJ. If you have severe pain or other conservative treatments have failed, your dentist may recommend surgery. A TMJ surgery involves repositioning, repairing, removing, and replacing the affected jaw.
It is a complex procedure done under general anesthesia and usually takes longer to heal. Therefore, consult your doctor to decide whether TMJ surgery is the right treatment for you.
4. Bite Corrections
Bite correction techniques are effective methods of treating TMJ pain. They usually treat improper bites, among the leading causes of TMJ pain. Your doctor might recommend customized dental splints or mouthguards to keep your teeth aligned, prevent grinding, and reduce clenching.
These bite correction treatments help to reposition and stabilize your jaw. As a result, the pressure on your jaw subsides, and TMJ symptoms reduce significantly. Consult your doctor to determine which dental splints are suitable for effective results.
5. Muscle Relaxers
Muscle relaxers can effectively help to alleviate jaw pain caused by TMD. They help relax the jaws and facial muscles and reduce muscle spasms. Muscle relaxers are quite powerful and require a dentist’s prescription.
Due to their powerful nature, you might only need to use them for a few days or weeks. One of the best muscle relaxers for TMJ pain is diazepam and Tricyclic antidepressants. Consult your dentist on which type of muscle relaxer might benefit your condition.
TMJ pain can be debilitating. If you are struggling with this condition, visit an orthodontist at Chase Dental Sleepcare facility. They will determine if there is any cause for concern and advise you on a course of action that will help alleviate your symptoms. Call today to inquire about the next steps or schedule an appointment to begin treatment immediately and give way to a happier lifestyle.
