Top TMJ Treatment Solutions in Danville, VA
TMJ is a painful disorder that can last for years. But there is a way out and a way through.
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called TMJ, are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
TMJ disorder treatment by our expert dentists can achieve the balance needed to stop inflammation, facial pain, headaches, and other symptoms. Learn more below.
Learn More About TMJ Treatments
What causes TMJ Disorder?
While the causes of TMJ aren’t perfectly understood, oral surgeons believe symptoms arise from problems with the muscles of your jaw or with the parts of the joint itself.
We don’t know for certain how many people have TMJ disorders, but some estimates suggest that over 10 million Americans are affected with the condition appearing to be more common in women than in men.
For most people, pain in the area of the jaw joint or muscles does not signal a serious problem. Generally, discomfort from these conditions is occasional and temporary, often occurring in cycles. The pain eventually goes away with little or no treatment. Some people, however, develop significant, long-term symptoms.
Injury to your jaw, the joint, or the muscles of your head and neck — like from a heavy blow or whiplash — can lead to TMJ.
Other causes include:
Grinding or clenching your teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the joint
Movement of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket of the joint
Arthritis in the joint
Stress, which can cause you to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth
What are the treatment options for TMJ?
There are various treatment options for TMJ to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms your diagnosis, Dr. Patel will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care combined with professional care. Treatment takes time to become effective, Dr. Patel can help you have a healthier, more comfortable jaw.
The initial goal is to relieve muscle spasms and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant. Steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include:
Resting your jaw
Keeping your teeth apart when you're not swallowing or eating
Eating soft foods
Applying ice and heat
Exercising your jaw
Practicing good posture
Stress management techniques such as physical therapy may be recommended, as well as an appliance. A splint or night guard fits over your top or bottom teeth and helps keep your teeth apart, thereby relaxing the muscles and reducing pain. A night guard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night. It also helps to protect the cartilage and joint surfaces.
There are different types of appliances used for different purposes. An anterior positioning appliance is another option. It moves your jaw forward, relieves pressure on parts of your jaw, and aids in disk repositioning.
Appliances may be worn 24 hours/day or just at night, to move your jaw into proper position and help to protect tooth wear.
Do I need TMJ Surgery?
TMJ Surgery is for the most extreme cases. If your TMJ disorder has affected how your teeth fit together, you may need further treatment such as bite adjustment (equilibration), orthodontics, jaw reconstruction, or restorative dental work.
Surgical options, such as arthroscopy and open joint repair, are reserved for severe cases. Our doctors at VSP Dental do not consider TMJ surgery unless the jaw is dislocated and nonreducible, has severe degeneration, or the patient has undergone appliance treatment unsuccessfully.
If your path to TMJ includes surgery as the treatment option, rest assured you’ll be in excellent hands with our high-tech surgical center, expert doctors, and caring team.
How do I get started?
Start with a Complimentary Consultation with Dr. Patel. During your private consultation, the doctor will create a customized treatment plan just for you. You’ll learn exactly how much the procedure will cost with no hidden or surprise fees. And remember, a consultation is a conversation, not a commitment. You have nothing to lose except your pain!