Treatment Options for TMD
Most often, TMJ symptoms will go away on their own because your jaw joint will rest and recover while you are unable to chew. At home treatments for TMD include taking an anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, eating soft foods, and applying warm compresses to the area of pain.
However, if the symptoms of TMD do not go away on their own, then medical treatment may be required. Your doctor for TMJ may show you some muscle stretching and relaxation exercises to perform at home that may help to relax the jaw. You may be fitted with an occlusal or night guard that fits over your upper and lower teeth like a mouth sports guard, especially if you have the habit of teeth grinding. The splint is designed to reduce clenching or teeth grinding at night, thus easing muscle tension.
If the noninvasive treatment options do not reduce your pain or tenderness, more invasive procedures may be recommended by your doctor for TMJ. Options such as cortisone shots can help relieve inflammation and pain. A small percentage of patients require jaw joint replacement surgery to replace the jaw joint with an artificial implant.
Teeth grinding is often one of the most common contributors to TMJ Disorder. Schedule a consultation with your doctor for TMJ to discuss your TMD treatment options!