TMJ Treatment

TMJ treatment, or temporomandibular joint treatment, encompasses a range of strategies to address dysfunction and pain in the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles. This may include lifestyle modifications, conservative treatments such as oral appliances or physical therapy, dental interventions like bite adjustments or splints, interventional treatments such as trigger point injections or Botox, and, in severe cases, surgical options like arthrocentesis or arthroscopy. The benefits of TMJ treatment in dentistry are significant, as it can alleviate symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking or popping noises, difficulty chewing or speaking, headaches, and facial pain, ultimately improving oral function, quality of life, and overall oral health. By addressing TMJ disorder, dentists in Los Angeles, CA, can help patients regain comfort, restore jaw function, and prevent long-term complications associated with untreated temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

• Jaw pain or tenderness, particularly when chewing or speaking.
• Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw.
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth thoroughly.
• Jaw stiffness or locking.
• Ear pain or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
• Headaches, particularly around the temples or behind the eyes.
• Facial pain or tenderness, especially around the jaw joint area.
• Pain or discomfort while chewing or biting.
• Swelling on the side of the face.
• Changes in the alignment of the teeth or how the upper and lower teeth fit together (occlusion).

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorder

Lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in managing TMJ disorder. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles and alleviate TMJ-related discomfort. Dietary changes, such as opting for a softer diet and avoiding hard or chewy foods, can reduce strain on the jaw joints. Additionally, maintaining proper posture, especially while sitting and sleeping, can alleviate pressure on the TMJ and promote relaxation of the jaw muscles.

Conservative treatments focus on non-invasive approaches to relieve TMJ-related symptoms. Oral appliances, such as custom-made mouthguards or splints by our dentist at Carlston Dental Group, provide cushioning for the jaw joints, preventing teeth grinding (bruxism) and reducing stress on the TMJ. Physical therapy involves targeted exercises and techniques a physical therapist administers to improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles, and alleviate pain. Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorder.

Dental treatments aim to address underlying dental issues contributing to TMJ disorder. Bite adjustment techniques, orthodontic treatment, or dental restorations such as crowns or bridges can correct misaligned bites, redistributing forces evenly across the teeth and alleviating pressure on the TMJ. Dental splints are customized to stabilize the bite, minimize excessive jaw movement, promote relaxation of the jaw muscles, and reduce TMJ-related discomfort.

For individuals with persistent or severe TMJ symptoms, interventional treatments or surgical options may be considered. Trigger point injections target specific muscle trigger points with pain-relieving medications to provide rapid relief from muscle spasms and tension. Botox injections relax overactive jaw muscles, reducing muscle tension and alleviating TMJ-related pain. In more severe cases, surgical procedures such as arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open joint surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged TMJ components and restore normal joint function. Contact us today!

The Benefits of TMJ Treatment

• TMJ disorder often manifests with symptoms such as jaw pain, facial pain, headaches, and earaches. Treatment can provide significant pain relief and improve overall comfort by addressing the underlying causes of TMJ disorder and alleviating strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
• TMJ disorder can lead to restricted movement, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Treatment in Los Angeles, CA, aims to restore proper function to the jaw joint, allowing for smoother and more comfortable jaw movements. This can enhance an individual's ability to eat, speak, and perform daily activities without discomfort or limitations.
• TMJ disorder often results in muscle tension and stiffness in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. Treatment modalities such as physical therapy and relaxation techniques can help reduce muscle tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall muscle function. This can lead to decreased muscle soreness, improved range of motion, and enhanced flexibility in the jaw and surrounding areas.
• Bruxism is commonly associated with TMJ disorder and can lead to dental problems such as tooth wear, fractures, and damage to dental restorations. Treatment for TMJ disorder may include interventions to address bruxism and protect the teeth from further damage, such as custom-fitted mouthguards or dental splints. By preventing dental damage, TMJ treatment helps preserve the integrity of the teeth and maintain oral health.
• The most significant benefit of TMJ treatment is the improvement in the quality of life it offers. By relieving pain, restoring function, and alleviating associated symptoms, the therapy allows individuals to enjoy a better quality of life, free from the limitations and discomfort caused by TMJ disorder. Improved oral health and reduced pain enhance overall well-being, allowing individuals to engage fully in work, social activities, and leisure pursuits.

Ready to find relief from TMJ disorder and reclaim control over your oral health and well-being? Visit Carlston Dental Group at 2472 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064, or call (310) 838-0844 to explore personalized TMJ treatment options tailored to your needs.