Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be a source of persistent pain and frustration for many people. If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty in closing or opening your mouth, you might be dealing with TMJ-related issues. Luckily, our general dentistry team is here to explore TMJ and treatment options for lasting relief.
If you want to talk about TMJ and treatment options with an Oak Park, IL, dentist, contact Dr. Thomas Wegner at Town & Country Dental. Our team can help you get to the bottom of jaw pain and dysfunction, allowing you to live a healthier, pain-free life. Dial (708) 383-0330 to reserve your appointment today!
In this blog, we talk about TMJ and treatment options. Here, we tell you the common causes of this condition and offer valuable insight to help you get lasting relief.
Understanding TMJ
The temporomandibular joint is a very important yet often injured joint. It connects the mandible (jawbone) to the temporal bone of the skull, assisting in vital functions like talking, chewing, and yawning.
When this joint malfunctions or experiences stress, it can lead to TMJ disorders. Causes range from jaw injuries and arthritis to teeth grinding and stress-induced jaw clenching. TMJ disorders are very common, as there are around 12 million Americans currently living with the condition.
Symptoms
Identifying TMJ disorders early on is crucial for effective treatment. Symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw
- Aching around the ear
- Difficulty chewing
- A sudden change in the way your upper and lower teeth fit together
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s essential to consult with our dentist in Oak Park, IL, promptly.
TMJ and Treatment Options
When it comes to TMJ and treatment options, patients have plenty of solutions to choose from, including:
Lifestyle Changes
Simple lifestyle adjustments can often work wonders on TMJ symptoms, such as:
- Avoiding hard or chewy foods
- Practicing stress-reducing techniques
- Implementing good posture
- Limiting certain behaviors, like gum chewing and nail-biting
Physical Therapy
TMJ therapists may employ several strategies to improve TMJ symptoms, such as:
- Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles
- Massages to reduce tension
- Stretches to improve flexibility
- Posture training
Medications
For pain relief and inflammation reduction, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescription muscle relaxants may prove quite helpful. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication regimen to ensure it’s suitable for your specific condition.
Dental Treatments
Dentists can play a crucial role in managing TMJ disorders. Our team can create custom-made splints or bite guards to help align the jaw properly and alleviate pressure on the joint. Orthodontic treatments may also be valuable solutions to TMJ disorders.
Surgical Intervention
For patients with severe TMJ struggling to find relief with more conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be the only answer. Arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open-joint surgery are options that aim to address structural issues within the temporomandibular joint.
Typically, surgery is a last resort and is only recommended when other treatments have failed.
Discuss TMJ and Treatment Options with an Oak Park, IL, Dentist
From simple lifestyle adjustments to advanced dental interventions, there are various options available to address the root causes of TMJ-related discomfort. If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, contact Town & Country Dental of Oak Park today. You can request an appointment with Dr. Wegner online or at (708) 383-0330.