Treating TMJ Pain

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.