TMJ Disorder Treatment...
 Proper
diagnosis is critical to make sure you receive treatment for your
particular condition. Your dentist will recommend treatment after
conducting a thorough health history, clinical exam, taking
appropriate X-rays, and perhaps confirming the condition through
other diagnostic tests.
Your dentist may prescribe a multiple-phase treatment plan. Only
minor corrective treatment may be needed. Treatment may be simple or
require more steps for alleviating the condition, depending on the
degree of severity. Some of these treatments include:
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Taking a non-aspirin pain reliever or
prescription medications such as muscle relaxants, analgesics,
or anti-inflammatory drugs |
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Eating soft foods |
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Avoiding chewing gum |
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Applying moist heat or ice |
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Physical therapy |
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Teaching relaxation techniques to control
muscle tension |
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Stress management training techniques |
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Posture training |
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Wearing bite plates to eliminate the harmful
effects of clenching or grinding the teeth, and a better positioning
of the jaws |
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Adjusting the bite, known as "occlusal
equilibration" involving removing interferences when the teeth touch |
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Replacement of defective restorations that
prevent the jaws from meeting properly |
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Orthodontics, to put the teeth in proper
position |
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Surgery |
In most cases, the symptoms related to TMJ disorders can be successfully treated to reduce or eliminate your discomfort. Postponement of treatment usually results in more damage to the joint, muscles, or teeth. Be sure to discuss any questions you may have about TM symptoms and treatment plans with your dentist.
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