Treatment for TMJ/TMD disorders affecting the jaw joint and other ailments that affect the surrounding muscles can cause several issues with daily functions, including speaking and eating. A person will usually seek treatment for TMJ Treatment due to the following reasons: bruxism, osteoarthritis, and injury of the jaw; as well as habitual and involuntary clenching. The TMJs connect the lower jawbone to the skull enabling it to flex and be stable with its use.
TMJ Issues
TMJ problems, also referred to as TMD, is a condition that results in pain in the jaw and face and is caused by a malfunction in either the muscles surrounding the jaw joints or the jaw itself. It’s known to cause headaches, difficulty opening the mouth, and jaw cracking or clicking. People under TMJ Treatment often report experiencing neck or shoulder pain. This disorder is more prevalent in women and generally develops between the ages of 20 and 40. In some cases, misalignment of the jaw referred to as malocclusion, can also exacerbate the pain and difficulties in jaw functionality.
Main Causes of TMJ Issue
Several factors cause TMJ/TMD and some examples include jaw injuries, grinding of the teeth, and arthritis. Some people with poor posture or even high-stress levels that cause tension of jaw muscles may need treatment with TMJ/TMD. Repeated chewing behaviour may make symptoms even worse over time.
TMJ Treatment Options
The severity of TMJ determines how it should be treated. Pain can be lessened with over-the-counter drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Muscle relaxants can reduce jaw clenching, and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling. Dentists often recommend custom mouthguards that reposition the jaw to reduce grinding and improve comfort. Physical therapy exercises strengthen the muscles around the TMJ, providing relief.
Other non-invasive treatments might include ultrasound therapy. Such treatment will work by utilising sound waves that help relax the muscles. In cases where severe pain-relieving measures are needed, trigger-point injections using either corticosteroids or botulinum toxin could be administered. In some cases, certain muscle knots found specifically in the jaw would need concentrated attention. Dentist Donvale might offer an alternative treatment called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This applies low-level electrical currents to relax the muscles found in the jaw. Where the situation doesn’t improve with this process, then a surgical procedure might be necessary. This might mean TMJ arthroscopy, or in more severe cases, open-joint surgery.
Patients who experience persistent jaw pain or discomfort should seek TMJ/TMD treatment. Seeking advice from a Dentist Donvale can present the opportunity for individuals to gain relief with a tailored plan suitable for them.
