TMJ/TMD Treatment: Alleviate Pain and Stiffness in the Jaw
TMJ and TMD treatment—also known as temporomandibular joint disorder—is a dental procedure to alleviate pain or stiffness in the jaw. With TMJ, the joint connecting the lower jaw to the skull may produce a clicking sound when opening.
TMJ can sometimes go away on its own with painkillers and relaxation methods. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms for more than a few days, you should consult our dentist immediately:
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ affects 1 in 10 people, generally between the ages of 20-40, but it can also affect anyone at any age. TMJ can be caused by:
TMJ can be treated non-surgically; however, our dentist may also recommend a surgical procedure if symptoms do not go away or become more severe. If left untreated, TMJ can also lead to long-term, more serious health issues such as joint disorders.
What to Expect At Your Appointment:
Our dentist will assess the severity of the issue first by listening for clicking sounds when opening/closing the mouth. They will then observe your open/close range of motion and whether you are experiencing any pain. They may also take an X-ray of the mouth and jaw or suggest an MRI scan to see the skull.
What Does TMJ/TMD Treatment involve?
If surgery is not needed, our dentist will recommend the following for TMJ/TMD treatment:
While treating your pain for TMJ/TMD, you should eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids. Self-massage, meditation, and other relaxation methods can also help ease TMJ muscle pain.
If you think you have TMJ/TMD and are seeking treatment, book a consultation with one of our dentists today. We’d be happy to discuss treatment options in more detail.
Get in touch with us
For additional information regarding our practice, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 920-231-7160. We look forward to helping you achieve your unique goals! And be sure to take a look at our blog for news and updates about your dental health.
