TMJ disorder affects the joints on either side of the head, both of which connect to the jaw. When there is any sort of dysfunction, the result is a disorder, which is often diagnosed, treated and managed by a general dentist. Understanding the cause of the TMJ disorder helps the dentist determine the appropriate course of treatment.
General dentists are dental professionals who have been properly trained in how the jaw functions, which makes them experts at addressing TMJ disorders. General dentists can offer their patients who are suffering from TMJ pain a few different treatment options in order to ease their suffering. Since every patient is different, consultation appointments are necessary.
According to the American Dental Association, diagnosis is an important step before treatment, which includes a dental examination of checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving.
Below is a list of some of the more common treatment options that general dentists offer their dental patients who have been diagnosed with TMJ.
TMJ patients who clench or grind their teeth will often benefit from wearing a custom-made nightguard. Nightguards are beneficial in that they help prevent someone from clenching or grinding their teeth when sleeping, as this is known to make TMJ worse. They are also designed to realign one’s jaw while they are sleeping, which helps take any tension off of the jaw joints. For patients who need more than night treatment, dental splints are an option, which are worn during the day.
Some TMJ patients will benefit by taking a medication that is prescribed by a general dentist. The overall goal of these dental medications is to help patients relax enough so that they are not placing any stress in or around their jaw area. Examples of the types of medications general dentists may offer include muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety drugs, anti-inflammatory medications and analgesics. For patients who are experiencing extreme TMJ pain, temporary prescription pain relievers may be an option.
There are certain exercises a general dentist can recommend for their patients in order to strengthen their jaw muscles. The purpose of these exercises is to stretch the entire mouth area, which in turn helps to make the jaw area stronger. Once the jaw is made stronger, patients may experience less or even no pain.
Those suffering from TMJ may also benefit from learning a few relaxation techniques. The purpose of relaxing the jaw area is to reduce the amount of stress in the jaw, which in turn helps to reduce the amount of pain being experienced.
Have any questions about TMJ? There is typically not just one treatment that reduces and eliminates TMJ pain, which is why a consultation is necessary. Reach out today to find out more or to get started with an appointment.
Are you considering TMJ treatment in the Palmer area? Get more information at https://www.vndak.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: TMJ Dentist in Palmer, AK.
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, also commonly referred to as TMJ, are a group of conditions that cause pain as well as dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control the movement of the jaw. Although it is not fully known how many people have TMJ disorders, it is estimated that millions of…
You may not think much about TMJ disorder unless a dentist diagnoses you with it. This is a serious condition that can cause much pain and discomfort. Untreated, this disorder can make it difficult to chew and even speak. Instead of suffering and being in agony, you can speak to your dentist. Fortunately, relief is…
Considering improving the appearance of your smile with the use of Botox®? Esthetic dentists use this technique to help their patients get the results they want. Dentists use Botox® for various conditions, including high lip line, proper denture fitting, and bruxism (teeth grinding).While Botox® has frequently been used in various beauty and cosmetic practices, it…
Teledentistry involves checking up on, diagnosing and treating patients through the use of digital technology when they cannot physically come into the dental office.There are different reasons for teledentistry, and it is helpful to be familiar with the different kinds of visits to determine whether you should schedule a teledentistry appointment. The most common types…