TMJ / TMD Treatment
TMJ (an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint) is a joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. You have two of these joints, one on each side of your head. When these joints become misaligned, you could develop TMJ disorder (sometimes called TMD or temporomandibular disorder). TMJ / TMD can be very painful. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help restore alignment and relieve pain.
Symptoms of TMJ / TMD
TMJ / TMD can cause jaw pain, tenderness, or soreness, but the pain can also radiate out beyond the jaw to affect any area of your face or upper body. Symptoms could include:
- Jaw locking
- Loose or sore teeth
- Pain or soreness in your face
- Pain or pressure in your sinuses
- Pain behind your eyes
- Pain in or around your ears
- Headaches
- Pain in your neck or shoulders
- Numb hands or fingers
Treatment Options for TMJ / TMD
There are several treatment options available for treating TMJ / TMD. Talk to an experienced dentist who focuses on TMJ / TMD treatments to find out which would be best for you.
Using Oral Appliances to Treat TMJ / TMD
TMJ stabilization splints, also known as bite plates or bite guards, are hard resin devices that fit over your teeth and keep your upper and lower teeth from touching. Wearing a TMJ splint puts your teeth in a healthy position and reduces pressure on your jaw.
Using BOTOX to Treat TMJ / TMD
BOTOX can quickly relieve headaches and jaw pain caused by TMJ / TMD. This is a non-surgical treatment that is administered in a single treatment session and lasts for up to four months. You should consider this option if your pain is related to grinding or clenching your jaw.
Other Non-Surgical Treatment Options for TMJ / TMD
- Braces or removable retainers may be used to treat TMJ / TMD. When these orthodontic devices realign your teeth, your TMJ will also shift back into alignment. Consider this option if your TMJ disorder is caused by misalignment or bite problems.
- Physical therapy can help you stretch and strengthen your jaw.
- Learning stress reduction techniques can help you stop clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth.
Dr. Robert Stoddard is a highly experienced dentist who focuses on treating TMJ / TMD and sleep apnea at the Norwood Dental Sleep Medicine LLC treatment center in Norwood, Massachusetts. Call us today at (781) 352-8497 to find out more about treatments to relieve your TMJ / TMD pain.