The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a huge
role in our day-to-day oral function. TMJ refers to the jaw joints and muscles
that enable us to open and close our mouths and is pivotal to certain actions,
such as smiling, talking, and eating. When you suffer from TMJ pain, life
becomes more challenging.
TMJ issues are reportedly common. The National
Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) estimates the number of
American adults experiencing pain and discomfort due to TMJ dysfunction exceeds
10 million. TMJ pain can be caused by trauma, misaligned (crooked) teeth, and
inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, wear due to aging, stress, and more.
Thankfully, TMJ problems are often temporary. In many cases, it's possible to
find relief from symptoms by visiting a dentist who is trained in comprehensive
TMJ dentistry. For those battling TMJ issues, treatments range from simple,
at-home care, to more complex and extensive medical solutions.
Less is Often Best
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial
Research (NIDCR) recommends that people who want to relax their joints and
muscles to alleviate TMJ pain can make some adjustments, such as:
- Eating softer foods
- Avoiding chewing gum, and don't bite your
nails
- Using heat packs & moisture to address
the pain
- Practicing relaxation techniques to control
jaw tension – i.e., meditation, or biofeedback.
If these techniques don't provide relief, other non-surgical,
therapeutic solutions include:.
Medicinal relief –Over-the-counter pain relief may work for some,
but when it doesn't, your health care provider may prescribe relaxants,
sedatives, antidepressants, or stronger pain relievers. You will also want to
consider seeking professional treatment rather than treating the symptoms at-home
over long periods of time. Over the counter medicine will help reduce the pain,
but will not solve the problem.
Splints or Bite guards – These plastic guards fit your teeth to provide
your muscles with some relief. The guards relieve tension by helping to reduce
jaw clenching and teeth grinding. A trip to a dentist who is trained in TMJ therapy
will help determine if a dental appliance will work for you
Physical Therapy –Your health care provider can recommend a series
of specialized jaw exercises, designed to gently stretch the joints and
muscles.
Proceed with Caution
Many professional organizations, including the
NIDCR, believe in the “less is more” approach to treating TMJ pain, but
persistent and severe cases may need other alternatives. Research is a key
component in the search for successful treatment. .The dental industry has
triumphed with technological advancements for treating TMJ problems.
While going through the process of discovering
which treatment option is for you, be sure to discuss your jaw limitations with
your dentist. Dr. Aryani is trained to help with TMJ pain. If you are in the
Northern Philadelphia area of Bala Cynwyd and are looking for help with your
TMJ pain, please contact our office to find out more.
