TMJ/TMD Treatment
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: pain or tenderness in the jaw, pain in or around the ear, difficulty chewing, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, or inability to carry on with normal life tasks.
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: over-the-counter medication for pain relief, muscle relaxant to help With jaw spasms, a mouth or bite guard to help with clenching, or they may also recommend physical therapy.
Book a Consultation
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.