The Whole Tooth and Nothing But the Tooth

If you suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, you understand just how painful it can be. The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When it is not functioning properly, you may experience painful symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Fortunately, there are various dental treatments that can help alleviate these symptoms and improve your quality of life. This blog post will discuss the various options for TMJ dental treatment and how they can help relieve your pain.

Oral Devices

One of the most common approaches to treating TMJ disorder is through the use of oral appliances or devices. These are custom-made devices that are worn in the mouth during sleep or throughout the day to protect the teeth and alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joint. There are several types of oral devices available, including splints, mouthguards, and bite guards. Your dentist will determine which type of device is appropriate for your specific needs.

Orthodontic Treatment

In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to address TMJ disorder. For example, if your bite is misaligned and contributing to your pain, your dentist may recommend braces or other orthodontic appliances to realign your teeth and improve your bite. This can help reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint and alleviate your symptoms.

Botox Injections

In more severe cases of TMJ disorder, your dentist or doctor may recommend botox injections. Botox is a neurotoxin that works by relaxing the muscles in the face and jaw, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by TMJ disorder. While botox injections are typically reserved for more severe cases, they can be an effective treatment option for those who have not found relief with other methods.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to the above treatment options, lifestyle changes such as stress management, relaxation techniques, and avoiding hard or chewy foods can also help alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorder. Your dentist may recommend that you make these changes in conjunction with other treatments to maximize their effectiveness.

Surgery

In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to correct TMJ disorder. This is typically only recommended in cases where other treatment options have been unsuccessful. Surgery may involve realigning the jaw or repairing damaged cartilage in the temporomandibular joint.

TMJ disorder can be a painful and frustrating condition, but there are a variety of treatment options available to help alleviate your symptoms. Contact your dentist to learn more about TMJ dental treatments.