Are you fighting a battle with TMD or TMJD dysfunction?
In fact, around 12 million Americans are struggling with TMJ dysfunction. This disorder can make it hard to chew correctly, hold your mouth closed, or manage stress. Your jaw may click when you open and close it, and you might be in extreme pain.
But how to manage TMJ disorders?
If you’re dealing with this condition, know you’re not alone. Doctors can offer treatments that range from jaw exercises and mouth guards to medication and surgery.
Keep reading to learn more about the treatment for TMJ disorder.
Mouth Guards
There are many dental treatments for TMJD. However, one of the most common and effective treatments is mouth guards.
Mouth guards protect the teeth and jaw from damage and reduce stress on the TMJ joint. Therefore, a correct fit is vital. They are custom-made by a top rated dental care clinic or, in some cases, can be purchased at a pharmacy.
Pain Relievers
You can use pain relievers to help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with TMJ disorder. Some of the most common medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, are OTC drugs.
If these medications don’t work, you can also use prescription medications. These are typically stronger and can be more effective in treating pain.
Physical Therapy
The physical therapy treatment for TMJ disorder often includes exercises, stretches, and massages. Physical therapy aims to reduce hurt and swelling in the jaw joint and muscles and improve the range of motion and function.
If physical therapy doesn’t work, a physical therapist can help to educate you about the proper way to use your jaw and can help you in relieving pain.
Relaxation Techniques
The relaxation technique is another treatment you can use to treat TMJ disorder. It can help reduce the soreness associated with TMJ disorder and improve jaw function.
Some of the most effective relaxation techniques for TMJ Disorder include yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes will help reduce jaw stress and promote healing. Some of the most effective lifestyle changes for TMJ disorder include:
- Avoiding excessive jaw clenching
- Limiting teeth grinding
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough rest
Surgery
Some doctors recommend surgery to treat TMJ disorder in severe cases, including arthroscopy, open joint surgery, and joint replacement surgery.
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to repair damaged joint tissues. Open joint surgery involves making large incisions to access the joint. Joint replacement surgery is a surgical procedure whereby the damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint.
These treatments are often the last resort when other surgical treatments have failed.
Know This About Treatment for TMJ Disorder
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ disorder, as the best treatment options depend on the individual case.
However, some common treatments include mouth guards, pain relievers, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes, and surgery. If you think you have TMJ disorder, contact your primary healthcare provider to discuss a treatment plan.
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