Treatment FAQ

how effective is tmj treatment

by Mr. Quentin Stracke Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

When other methods don't help, your doctor might suggest procedures such as:

  • Arthrocentesis. Arthrocentesis (ahr-throe-sen-TEE-sis) is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the insertion of small needles into the joint so that fluid can be irrigated through the joint to remove debris ...
  • Injections. ...
  • TMJ arthroscopy. ...
  • Modified condylotomy. ...
  • Open-joint surgery. ...

Procedures

The good news is that most TMJ symptoms will clear up in no more than three weeks typically. However, certain TMJ conditions, especially those brought about by arthritis or bruxism, can last months or years, depending on the severity of the underlying condition. Dental Visit. Many people attempt to avoid the dentist at all costs.

Therapy

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a ball-and-socket joint located where the upper and lower jaws meet. When the TMJ and related muscles are injured, they need time to heal. Self-care is very important. You can take steps to reduce pressure on the TMJ and speed healing. Chewing strains the TMJ.

Nutrition

I've been looking for the answer to this for years. Temporomandibular joint disorder (tmj/tmd) cannot kill you. It can cause chronic pain in the jaw, face, neck, shoulders, around the ear, and migraine headaches. It is usually caused by chronic teeth grinding and/or clenching, and/ or a bad bite.

What is the most effective treatment for TMJ?

How long does it take to 'cure' TMJ?

Can TMJ heal itself?

Can TMJ kill you?

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What is the most effective treatment for TMJ?

Bite guards are the most widely recommended treatment for moderate TMJ symptoms. Research has found that splints can reduce TMJ pain and the risk of long-term side effects is minimal. There are two main types of dental splint, a TMJ mouthguard, and a bruxism (tooth grinding) mouthguard.

Can TMJ be completely cured?

Clenching and grinding of teeth are two of the major causes of TMJ pain. However, this is not an irreversible condition, and with proper treatment, one may be able to cure TMJ pain permanently. For starters, you must stop any habits of teeth grinding or clenching, and anything that puts pressure on the joint.

How long does TMJ take to cure?

For most adults, the treatment averages anywhere from 18 months to three years. Therapies like massaging or stretching the jaw, stretching the neck, and stress reduction exercises can instantly provide some relief. Still, it may take anywhere from weeks to months to see the full benefits.

Can TMJ get worse if not treated?

If you do not seek treatment, your TMJ symptoms may worsen–this includes your jaw pain. Chronic refers to a long-developing symptom or syndrome. When you do not deal with your jaw pain, it can turn from being occasional to being constant for a long-while.

What can be mistaken for TMJ?

Conditions That May Be Mistaken for TMJ DisorderTrigeminal Neuralgia. Just as you have two temporomandibular joints on each side of the face, you also have two trigeminal nerves that control your jaw. ... Cluster, Migraine, or Tension Headaches. ... Sinus Issues. ... Other Causes of TMJ Pain.

Does TMJ get worse over time?

Temporomandibular joint disease, or TMJ, is a complex condition that often worsens over time. Typically caused by the misalignment of the teeth, TMJ can erode the joint capsule between the skull and the jawbone.

How I cured my TMJ naturally?

Natural TMJ Pain RemediesEat Soft Foods. One of the best ways to start finding relief from TMJ pain is by simply just eating softer foods. ... Learn Stress Management. One of the top causes of TMJ is actually stress. ... Wear a Bite Guard. ... Limit Jaw Movements. ... Try Acupuncture or Massage Therapy. ... Use Heat or Cold Therapy.

Can a night guard make TMJ worse?

While most night guards can prevent enamel wear by avoiding direct teeth contact, it does not prevent grinding and clenching. In some cases, night guards actually increase the activity of the muscles that clench and this makes TMJ pain worse.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Alternative Medicine

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Mansi Shah
Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
TMJ disorder may be self-treatable in some cases. In cases requiring treatment, it is always a combination of therapies.
Medication

Anti-inflammatory drugs: Drugs that are used to manage pain and inflammation.

Ibuprofen


Tricyclic antidepressants: Drugs used to treat depression.

Amitriptyline


Muscle relaxants: Reduces stiffness.

Cyclobenzaprine

Procedures

Arthrocentesis: Insertion of needles into the joints to drain out the fluid and inflammatory debris.

TMJ arthroscopy: Surgically correcting the joint using instruments and camera inserted into the joint through a small cut.

Modified condylotomy: Done in case of locking; involves surgery of the lower jaw bone.

Therapy

Physical therapy:Includes exercises, using ultrasound, moist heat and/or ice to relieve pain and improve jaw movements.

Counseling:To help you understand the factors causing your condition and avoid them.

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Foods rich in hyaluronic acid like broth of animal tendons and bones
  • Foods rich in magnesium like green vegetables
  • Organ meat and red meat

Foods to avoid:

  • Foods rich in salicylates like jams, jellies and juices
  • Dairy products like yogurt, cheese and milk
  • Bakery products like cakes and cookies

Specialist to consult

Dentist
Specializes in the treatment of diseases associated with teeth and gums.
Otolaryngologist
Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the ear, nose and throat.

Preparing For Your Appointment

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Your doctor or dentist will discuss your symptoms and examine your jaw. He or she will probably: 1. Listen to and feel your jaw when you open and close your mouth 2. Observe the range of motion in your jaw 3. Press on areas around your jaw to identify sites of pain or discomfort If your doctor or dentist suspects a problem, y…
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