Innovative Treatments for TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders are very common in the United States, affecting anywhere from 14 to 34 million adults. While TMJ disorders may be prevalent, they are also very treatable. Let’s take a look at this collection of conditions and some of the innovative ways we treat them here at Dentex Smile Studio in New Jersey.

What are TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders are a group of conditions that affect the TMJs, or temporomandibular joints. These conditions are collectively known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. TMJ disorders can fall into three broad categories - disorders of the chewing muscles, disorders of the jaw joints, or headaches caused by TMJ issues.   Many TMJ disorders feature similar symptoms, including:

• Pain in the jaw, face, shoulder, and/or neck
• Stiffness in the jaw that makes it difficult to open and close the mouth
• A popping or clicking noise or sensation in one or both of the TMJs when opening and closing the mouth
• Headaches, including migraines
• Pain in the inner ear
• Tooth pain
• Ringing in the ears
• Teeth misalignments

  Not all patients will experience every one of these symptoms, while some patients will experience all of these symptoms plus others. This is why it is very important to be evaluated by a qualified dental professional if you believe you have a TMJ disorder.

Treatments for TMJ Disorders

Treatments for TMJ disorders have come a long way over the years and are typically based on the underlying cause of the TMJ disorders. Some of the treatments we offer or recommend here at Dentex Smile Studio are:

BOTOX®

BOTOX is a versatile medication with many medical uses, including treatment of TMJ disorders. BOTOX does this by relaxing the chewing muscles, relieving the tension and stiffness many patients experience with TMJ disorders. BOTOX usually brings the patient relief within a few days, but multiple injections will be needed each year to sustain the results.

Nightguards

If nighttime teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is the culprit causing your TMJ disorders symptoms, then a custom-fit nightguard may be the answer. These night guards are worn during sleeping hours to relieve pressure on the TMJs caused by grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw. Since modern night guards are made from durable plastic, you can expect them to stand up to even the strongest pressure from heavy grinders.

Medications

Since TMJ disorder symptoms are often caused by muscle tension, we may recommend muscle relaxers to relax the offending jaw muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be used to manage painful symptoms. For patients experiencing an acute bout of severe pain, a prescription pain reliever may be prescribed for a short period. For patients experiencing migraine symptoms as a result of a TMJ disorder, a migraine-specific headache medication may be recommended along with other treatments.

At-Home Treatments

Along with procedures and services we offer in the office, we also provide TMJ disorders sufferers with information about at-home treatments that some patients find effective:

Rest

Resting the jaw and surrounding muscles is probably the single most effective at-home treatment for TMJ disorders. This involves limiting opening and closing the mouth as much as possible, including refraining from speaking, chewing vigorously, or any other activity that requires the mouth to open wide or open and close frequently.

Dietary changes

A soft diet of mainly liquids and purees is preferred for patients who are experiencing a TMJ disorder flare-up.

Stretches

Stretches of the face, neck, and jaw are great to loosen up those muscles and promote greater flexibility.

Relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques such as guided breathing or meditation can help patients who are dealing with TMJ disorder pain.

Massage

A licensed medical masseuse can provide pinpointed treatment to the muscles and soft tissues that affect the face and jaw, relieving excess tension and promoting healthy blood flow to those areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorders

What if I don’t treat my TMJ pain?

While some cases of TMJ disorders resolve on their own without treatment, you shouldn’t count on this. Many patients who put off receiving treatment for their TMJ disorder report that their symptoms only worsened with time, making them regret delaying treatment in the first place.

My jaw pops or clicks, but I’m not in pain? Do I really need to see a dentist?

Yes, you should see a qualified dentist as soon as you notice signs of a potential TMJ disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for achieving the best outcome possible.

TMJ Disorder Treatment in New Jersey

TMJ disorders can be frustrating or even painful, but if you live in New Jersey, you don’t have to live with TMJ disorders symptoms any longer. At Dentex Smile Studio in Morristown, we are experts at treating the complex puzzle of TMJ disorder symptoms, giving you back your quality of life. To schedule an appointment with our competent and compassionate team of dental professionals, call us at

973-500-2555

or request an appointment online.