If you have TMJ pain, you may be wondering how to treat it. In the past, many people relied on self-care techniques to manage the symptoms. Today, treatment for TMJ disorders has evolved into multiple options, including simple self-care practices, steroid injections, and open surgery. While surgery is an option, most specialists recommend conservative nonsurgical treatments first. The most common methods of treating TMJ pain are discussed below.
Several medications and relaxation techniques can be beneficial in relieving TMJ pain. Some patients may be prescribed ice packs or muscle relaxants, which reduce swelling and inflammation. In advanced cases, occlusal splints, arthrocentesis, or injections at the joint are sometimes recommended. In some cases, TMJ pain can also lead to earaches, tinnitus, and other symptoms.
A dentist can refer you to an oral and maxillofacial specialist if the symptoms do not go away. If you can’t find a doctor who specializes in TMJ, your dentist can refer you to an ENT specialist or prosthetic dentist who specializes in the disorder. If the problem is muscular, x-rays may show no sign of damage. The dentist may also recommend an MRI or a CT scan to rule out the possibility of a more serious problem.
While it is possible to treat TMJ pain without undergoing surgery, it’s important to consult a doctor to avoid further complications. A dentist can help you understand the cause of the problem and determine how to treat it at home. Once you have a diagnosis, you can start treatment with a specialist. You’ll be able to find the right treatment for your unique needs. The right doctor can help you with your TMJ pain and get you back on track.
A healthcare provider can prescribe a medication to reduce the swelling and pain in the joint. NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and can be taken at higher doses for severe cases. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend narcotic analgesics, muscle relaxants, or surgery. TMJ surgery is a common way to relieve TMJ pain. It is a surgical procedure that involves a few small incisions and may require several sessions.
Depending on the severity of your TMJ pain, you may be able to reduce the pain with simple self-care. In the case of a traumatic injury, ice packs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help relieve the swelling in the jaw joint. In more advanced cases, your healthcare provider may recommend a narcotic analgesics. You may also be able to get an occlusal splint, or undergo surgery to realign your teeth.
A temporomandibular joint disorder can affect the jaw and cause pain in the neck. While most people will not experience symptoms, they may experience jaw pain that interferes with their daily lives. In these cases, you should seek medical treatment to prevent further damage. Your dentist will perform an X-ray to detect any problems. If these symptoms continue to persist, your dentist may recommend a TMJ therapy. If left untreated, TMJ can lead to worn-out enamel, fractured teeth, asymmetrical muscle growth, and even swelling of the jaw area.