How to Fix TMJ Dysfunction
Most people have never heard of the temporomandibular joint. If you have, it probably means you suffer from a condition called TMJ disorder or know someone who does. This often painful disorder affects the area where the lower jaw connects to the skull, often making it difficult to chew or even open your mouth. Your Faces Fort Worth team will work with you to find treatment options that give you relief.
What is TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder?
TMJ affects the hinge between the mandible (lower jaw) and the skull. Operated by your powerful chewing muscles, this joint moves constantly throughout the day. TMJ dysfunction can affect this joint or the muscles, ligaments, and other tissues that surround it. It can cause pain, grating or clicking sensations when opening your mouth and make daily activities like eating extremely challenging. Rather than being a single disorder, TMJ disorder is a name for the group of conditions that can cause pain and dysfunction in this joint.
How to Fix TMJ Dysfunction
Because TMJ disorder is a complex condition, treatment often requires a combination of methods. Dr. Sonneveld and his team will work with you to discover treatments that offer relief and combine them into a plan that works for you.
Medications
The most common medications used to treat TMJ dysfunction are NSAIDs like ibuprofen. They reduce inflammation and pain, and they are safe for most people to take regularly. People with more severe inflammation may benefit from prescription medications to manage it. Those whose TMJ problems are related to the muscles that move the joint can benefit from prescription muscle relaxers.
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Give us a call today at 817-927-1818 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. You’ll be happy you chose Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Fort Worth for your oral surgery and facial cosmetic surgery needs.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many non-surgical methods help people find relief from TMJ pain and dysfunction, including:
- Mouth guards or splints to prevent tooth grinding or clenching
- Physical therapy to restore function to the joint and its supporting muscles
- Behavioral modification to change habits that contribute to TMJ
- Massage to reduce muscle tension and pain
- Trigger point injections into targeted areas of muscle or joint pain
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is considered for TMJ disorder when other treatments have not worked, or the condition is causing significant problems. Surgical interventions may include restorative dentistry, orthodontics, and adjusting your bite. Surgery may also target the cartilage disc that cushions the joint, which can slip and press on nearby nerves.
How Effective is TMJ Dysfunction Treatment?
TMJ disorder is a complex condition, and many people will require some trial and error before finding the most effective treatments for their needs. Dr. Sonneveld and his team will work with you to try different methods until you find relief. Since TMJ disorder often requires ongoing management, we are committed to your long-term wellness and helping you find solutions you can stick with.
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about treating TMJ, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Faces Fort Worth. Call us at (817) 927-1818 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.
