TMJ is a common condition that dentists treat. It can affect people of all ages and causes intense pain in the jaw. It can also make it difficult to eat and makes chewing painful. If you believe you have this disorder, you should visit your dentist and seek treatment. Your dentist will have a few different options to relieve the discomfort your feel and manage this condition.
From the jawbone to the skull, there is a sliding hinge joint called the temporomandibular joint. Injuries, genetics, or other health problems can cause pain and soreness in one of these two joints. Clenching teeth or grinding teeth may also contribute to this disorder. Some people who have this condition may only feel pain for a short time. However, other patients may experience these problems frequently or even constantly.
In its most extreme cases, TMJ can affect a person’s daily life, interfering with basic routines. It is time to see the dentist when the patient cannot open their mouth or when the pain radiates to other parts of the body. Also, if the pain increases, the person should seek treatment right away.
When signs of TMJ first appear, the patient may seek self-care options at home. Applying an ice pack or cold-compression pack on the jaw can help to soothe the pain and reduce any swelling. Keeping ice on for about 20 minutes at a time several times throughout the day can be effective. Taking over-the-counter pain medication such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol can also help reduce the symptoms of this disorder. It may also be helpful for the person to avoid eating chewy and hard foods.
If over-the-counter drugs are not working well, the dentist may prescribe medicine to relieve the pain and discomfort. Anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants can help the patient manage the effects of TMJ for a time. The dentist may have to make adjustments to the dosages as the patient needs. Other drugs, such as antidepressants, can help with teeth grinding.
Medication can temporarily help the patient be free of pain. However, this approach may not solve the disorder and its effects. The dentist may lead the patient through physical therapy exercises to strengthen the joint and the muscles of the jaw. This can promote good movement. The therapy can also stretch out the joint for a more effective range of motion.
In the most severe situations, the dentist may recommend that the patient has surgery to address TMJ issues. The dentist may inject a needle into the jaw to extract fluid and other debris. Other injections, such as a steroid injection into the jaw muscles, can improve the person’s ability to chew. If the joint is damaged, the dentist performs an open-joint surgery to repair structural issues.
Suffering the consequences of TMJ can be difficult. You do not have to let the pain continue. Talk to your dentist today about how your jaw discomfort is affecting you. These treatments can be effective in restoring your jaw to health.
Are you considering getting TMJ treatment in the Delray Beach area? Get more information at https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com.
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