Different treatments are developed for different kinds of oral problems which can help maintain and restore dental health. One of the procedure is called TMJ treatment which is designed for the people suffering from Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome.
What is Temporomandibular joint?
TMJ is a kind of jaw muscle connecting the upper and lower jaw. TMJ has a unique structure, and some of its parts are made of cartilage (soft bone). Since it is made of cartilage TMJ is sensitive that it sometimes causes pain in the jaw if a person has a habit of clenching and grinding. Like other body parts, TMJ can swell and sore causing jaw pain that connects to the neck area and head and can lead to TMJ disorder or TMJ syndrome.
Cause
The common causes of TMJ syndrome are Teeth Grinding and Clenching, a kind of muscle trauma which is a great factor causing TMJ syndrome. When a person is grinding, especially if the teeth are misaligned, a person is prone to develop TMJ disorder since it can cause so much pressure and pain on the joint structure. Excessive teeth grinding and clenching can lead to bruxism, and if not treated, it will develop into TMJ syndrome or TMJ disorder. Also, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis can cause TMJ syndrome. Like other muscles, the TMJ is likely to develop arthritis that causes cartilage breakdown leading to TMJ syndrome.
Signs and Symptoms
If you are experiencing jaw pain, difficulty on chewing, hearing clicking noise whenever you open your mouth, pain radiating to head, neck, and ear, you are most likely to have a TMJ syndrome.
Medications and Treatment
To relieve pain, here are some of the prescribed medication:
- Muscle pain relievers
- Muscle Relaxants
- Tricyclic Antidepressants
Other forms to help you with TMJ syndrome is by having the therapies like:
- Night Guards/Bite Guards/Dental Mouthguards
This protects the teeth when clenching and grinding. It is usually made of soft materials and proven to be durable.
- Physical Therapy
Exercising the jaw muscles can be a great help to treat TMJ syndrome
- Counseling
This helps you know the reason, behaviors, and factors affecting your TMJ joint so that you can avoid it.
If TMJ syndrome is found to be severe, you might need surgery:
- Corticosteroid Injections
This procedure is performed by injecting Botox into the jaw muscles.
- Arthrocentesis
This procedure involves the insertion of needles into the joint muscles to remove inflammation and pain.
- Joint Replacement
If the TMJ is damaged, if a person is experiencing unbearable pain, and other treatments can’t resolve the pain, a joint replacement will be the best option.
If you are experiencing early signs and symptoms of TMJ syndrome, better visit a professional to have proper treatment and always keep your mouth clean and practice preventive dentistry.
Looking for a Dental Clinic for Chipped Tooth in Livonia? Contact us at Saad Smiles. We are located at 8810 Middlebelt Road, Livonia, MI 48150.