Treatment FAQ

what is treatment for tmj

by Michale Rice Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

Since 1936 TMJ has been primarily treated by dentists, however today, we know TMJ to be a complex condition with many biological systems (circulatory, digestive, endocrine, exocrine, immune, muscular, nervous, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal) playing a role, indicating the need to bring the medical and other allied health professionals in research and patient care.

Procedures

Aug 20, 2021 · You may also be referred to receiving mouth guarding devices to minimize and protect your teeth from grinding. Surgical treatments. Orthodontic, corrective treatment may permanently change your bite to aid in TMJ pain relief. Interested in learning more? There are plenty options to treat TMJ.

Therapy

Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are typically used to relieve TMJ discomfort. Sometimes, dentists also prescribe muscle relaxants and tricyclic antidepressants to help patients cope with symptoms. Many times, people notice improved symptoms after wearing splints or mouth guards (occlusal appliances).

Nutrition

Dec 28, 2018 · In most cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders is temporary and can be relieved with self-managed care or nonsurgical treatments. Surgery is typically a last resort after conservative measures have failed, but some people with TMJ disorders may benefit from surgical treatments. Products & Services

What are the best treatment options for TMJ?

Mar 18, 2022 · The best home remedies that may provide some relief are: Ice or cold packs to the area of the joint. Over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ), such as ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) or naproxen ( Aleve ), and other pain ... Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing gum. ...

What is TMJ, and how is it treated?

Stabilization splints are the most widely used treatments for TMJ disorders. Studies of their effectiveness in providing pain relief, however, have been inconclusive. If a stabilization splint is recommended, it should be used only for a short time and …

What treatments are covered by medical insurance for TMD/TMJ?

May 11, 2020 · TMJ is nothing different from the rest of the body joints, a moist heat or hot water bottle wrapped in a moist cloth can help you to have some comfort from TMJ pain and provide temporary relief or cure TMJ. While using moist heat, be careful and don’t burn your face.

What kind of doctor should you see for TMJ pain?

Your doctor may recommend the following treatment options: Your primary health care provider, dentist or physical therapist can recommend appropriate exercises to stretch, relax... TMJ patients can also be given biofeedback exercises to help them manage their responses to involuntary stress. Such as ...

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What is the most common 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.Jan 6, 2021

What is the main cause of TMJ?

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders are conditions affecting the jaw joints and surrounding muscles and ligaments. It can be caused by trauma, an improper bite, arthritis or wear and tear. Common symptoms include jaw tenderness, headaches, earaches and facial pain.Jun 21, 2021

Can TMJ go away on its own?

Remember that for most people, discomfort from TMJ disorders will eventually go away on its own. Simple self-care practices are often effective in easing symptoms.

How long does it take for TMJ to go away?

TMJ Treatment Types/Lengths 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.May 24, 2021

How do u know if u have TMJ?

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:Pain or tenderness of your jaw.Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints.Aching pain in and around your ear.Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing.Aching facial pain.Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.Dec 28, 2018

What will happen if TMJ is not treated?

Although not life threatening, if TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can contribute to significant discomfort and tension. Chronic pain can even lead to the development of diseases like anxiety and depression.

Is TMJ a dental or medical issue?

Because TMJ can be a medical problem, a dental problem, or a combination of both, it is beneficial to understand what is causing the patient's disorder before creating a treatment plan.

What makes TMJ pain worse?

Poor posture can also be an important factor in TMJ symptoms. For example, holding your head forward while looking at a computer all day strains the muscles of your face and neck. Other factors that may make TMJ symptoms worse include poor diet and lack of sleep.Feb 6, 2020

Where do you massage TMJ?

TMJ Friction MassageLocate the mandible muscle. This is the lower part of your jaw just below the masseter, found along your jawline.Apply gentle, constant pressure to the mandible muscle using your index finger.Experiment with the exact spot and amount of pressure that works for you.

What are the best exercises for TMJ?

6 Exercises That Help With TMJ PainResist Mouth-Closing. This involves adding pressure to your chin while closing your mouth. ... Resist Mouth-Opening. You can also gently add pressure to your chin when opening your mouth. ... Tongue Lifts. ... The Oxford University Hospitals Exercise. ... Jaw Slide Side-To-Side. ... Jaw Forward Movement.Oct 14, 2021

Is TMJ serious?

You may not think much about TMJ disorder unless a dentist diagnoses you with it. This is a serious condition that can cause much pain and discomfort. Untreated, this disorder can make it difficult to chew and even speak. Instead of suffering and being in agony, you can speak to your dentist.

How does a mouthguard help TMJ?

Mouth guards for TMJ problems are used to hold your jaw in the correct position. This is expected to prevent painful pressure by: Keeping you from clenching your teeth together. Keeping you from grinding your teeth together.

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Alternative Medicine

Preparing For Your Appointment

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.

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