The TMJ joints allow people to open, close and move their jaws. Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. This joint is found on each side of the jaw. TMJ disorders usually cause a lot of problems. These can include pain in the jaw joint and in the muscles that control the movement of the jaw.
It is not uncommon for the symptoms of TMJ disorders to go away on their own. But if the symptoms persist, seeking medical care is always a good idea. A dentist can recommend different treatment options depending on a patient’s condition. Here are some common treatment options for TMJ disorders.
Along with other nonsurgical treatment options, there is a variety of medication options that can ease the pain associated with the disorders. Over-the-counter medications often help people. Sometimes, though, the medications may not be able to ease the pain on their own. If this is the case, the dentist may prescribe stronger pain relievers for a short duration. The dentist may also suggest tricyclic antidepressants, in low doses, for pain relief. For TMJ disorders that are caused by muscle spasms, patients can use muscle relaxants for a couple of days or a few weeks to find pain relief.
Many people have been able to benefit from using oral appliances. A stabilization splint is a plastic guard that is designed to fit over either the lower or upper teeth. Over the years, stabilization splints have been used to treat TMJ disorders. The splints are ideal for short-term use and are not supposed to cause permanent changes in the bite. If a stabilization splint affects the bite or increases or causes pain, the patient must stop using it and see a dentist.
A dentist may recommend surgery when other treatment options have not been effective. Some common procedures include arthrocentesis and open-joint surgery. Arthrocentesis is a procedure that involves inserting tiny needles into the joint. This allows fluid to be irrigated through the joint to help remove debris and inflammatory products.
Open-joint surgery is often suggested when more conservative treatments do not help. The surgery can replace or repair the joint. But patients should know that it involves more risks compared to other procedures. Patients should only consider surgery after learning about the pros and cons.
If you think you have a TMJ disorder, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your dentist can talk to you about the possible causes and treatment options for your problem. These may include medications, stabilization splints and surgery. Your health care provider will suggest a suitable treatment depending on your condition and needs. You should always find out the benefits and risks and ask about all your treatment options. That way, you can make an informed decision before starting treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://brighton.drjstearns.com or call Platte Valley Oral Surgery at (303) 997-0223 for an appointment in our Brighton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: TMJ Dentist in Brighton, CO.
Getting wisdom teeth extractions can seem like a nerve-wracking experience, but the process is actually quite straightforward, especially if you prepare ahead of time! By taking a few small steps, you can simplify the extraction and the recovery afterward so you can move on with your life as soon as possible. Before your wisdom teeth…
Sometimes, tooth extractions may be necessary to improve your oral health. This procedure is a type of oral surgery. That is why getting this procedure from an experienced dental professional is ideal. Here are the details about the importance of getting tooth extractions from an oral surgeon.An oral surgeon will perform a complete assessment of…
A sinus lift or sinus augmentation can build up your upper jaw. This procedure is invasive. The dentist will take healthy bone and place it in the section of the maxilla that needs it. Here are the sinus lift benefits that you must consider.Studies show that a thinning upper jawbone can result in the weakening…
A surgical tooth extraction may be a result of multiple issues. Teeth are not like other bones in the body that can heal to their original strength with time and a cast. While there are certain restoration techniques for damaged teeth, a surgical tooth extraction from an oral surgeon can be the most effective option…
Getting wisdom teeth extractions can seem like a nerve-wracking experience, but the process is actually quite straightforward, especially if you prepare ahead of time! By taking a few small steps, you can simplify the extraction and the recovery afterward so you can move on with your life as soon as possible. Before your wisdom teeth…
Sometimes, tooth extractions may be necessary to improve your oral health. This procedure is a type of oral surgery. That is why getting this procedure from an experienced dental professional is ideal. Here are the details about the importance of getting tooth extractions from an oral surgeon.An oral surgeon will perform a complete assessment of…