TMJ disorders are known to affect the jaw joint as well as the muscles that control your jaw. The disorders can be challenging to diagnose and treat due to the complexity of the joint. Millions of Americans experience TMJ disorders at a particular point in their lives. The good thing is that you can receive treatment for the problems. Read on to learn how your dentist can treat TMJ disorders.
There is a wide array of symptoms that are linked to TMJ. Some common symptoms include pain when moving the jaw, backache, neck ache and headaches or migraines. Other symptoms include an unusual clicking, popping or grinding noise that can occur while a person is talking, eating or opening the mouth and restricted movement. Here are some ways a dentist can help treat TMJ disorders.
For a large number of patients with TMJ disorders, the short-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or over-the-counter pain medicines can help provide temporary relief from jaw discomfort. If these medications are not enough, a dentist may prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory or pain medications, anti-depressants or muscle relaxants to help ease symptoms. The dentist may prescribe stronger pain relievers for a short period. Tricyclic antidepressants, in low doses, are in some cases used for pain relief, sleeplessness and bruxism control. Muscle relaxants are sometimes used for some days or even weeks to help relieve pain, especially for TMJ problems created by muscle spasms.
A dentist can recommend an oral appliance, also commonly known as a stabilization splint or bite guard. This is a plastic guard that often fits comfortably over the lower or upper teeth. Even though studies on the effectiveness of stabilization splints in providing pain relief have been inconclusive, these appliances are often used for the treatment of TMJ problems. If a dentist recommends it, it should be used for a short time. Stabilization splints should not cause permanent changes in the bite. If there are any problems experienced from using them like increased pain or if it affects the bite, a patient should stop using it and the dentist should be informed of the complications.
A dentist can show a patient how to do particular exercises that can help stretch or strengthen the jaw muscles. This is ideal because they can increase the jaw movement. Sometimes, a dentist may suggest fixing an uneven bite by reshaping or adjusting some teeth. Orthodontic treatment may also help. However, a patient can benefit from knowing more about irreversible treatments such as orthodontics to change the bite and the potential risks. This will help a patient to make a good choice.
Your dentist may diagnose TMJ disorders based on particular symptoms including limited jaw movement and persistent pain around the jaw and various other information. Your dentist will then recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on the suspected cause. If the suggested treatments do not end up providing enough relief, you may be referred to a health care practitioner who focuses on TMJ disorders. If you have any questions about TMJ, talk to your dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Your family dentist can provide many good things to your dental health. Improving your dental health means enhancing your general health as well. Understanding how your dentist helps can make it easier to book your appointment. Here are some of the benefits of seeing a family dentist.Having a family dentist can make dental appointments easy…
Your entire household can have their teeth checked out at the same time if you visit a family dentist. These are dentists who are trained to provide services to patients of all ages. Getting routine dental checkups is an essential part of good oral hygiene. Most dental issues can be avoided by practicing good oral…
Typing dentist near me in your search box can give you a great start. Getting comprehensive oral care from the right dental care professional is the goal. A provider near you will give you easier access to necessary dental treatments. Entering dentist near me in your online search can give you an advantage in your…
Wondering how to practice good oral hygiene? Read on for some helpful tips from a family dentist. Good oral hygiene is a cornerstone of overall health and wellness. Regular visits to a family dentist for checkups, cleanings, and instruction in excellent oral hygiene are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums.The family dentist is the…
Your family dentist can provide many good things to your dental health. Improving your dental…
Your entire household can have their teeth checked out at the same time if you…
Finding the right general dentist can help maintain good oral health.
Wondering how to practice good oral hygiene? Read on for some helpful tips from a…
You can get specific procedures from your family dentist. This dental care provider knows your…
CPAP machines are the most popular form of sleep apnea treatment. However, there are effective…