Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder is a common ailment that can affect individuals of any age. This disorder can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, ultimately affecting one’s overall quality of life. The good news is that restorative dentistry offers lasting relief to patients living with this painful (and often debilitating) condition through TMJ treatment. 

At Smiles 4 Grant Park in Atlanta, GA, we provide comprehensive TMJ treatment tailored to each patient’s unique needs. If you’d like to explore your options, contact Dr. Abbey J. Lee at (404) 328-7177 today.

Because TMJ disorder can significantly impact one’s quality of life, it is essential to explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve one’s overall well-being. Here, we give you a comprehensive list of TMJ treatment options to help you get relief.

Understanding TMJ Disorder

The temporomandibular joint acts like a door hinge. It connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing the mouth to open and close within a certain range of motion.

We use this joint to yawn, eat, and speak, which means that it gets a lot of use every single day. However, overuse and orofacial irregularities (like a crossbite) can put a lot of stress on the jaw joint, ultimately leading to a painful disorder.  

Medical experts believe that around 12% of the adult population has some form of TMJ disorder. Common symptoms include:

• Jaw pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Clicking or popping sounds while the joint is in use
• Headaches and migraines
• Back and shoulder stiffness

Let’s explore common TMJ treatment options now, starting with the most conservative approach.

Conservative Approaches

Conservative TMJ treatment is a minimally invasive way to find relief through practices such as:

Self-Care Practices

Applying ice or heat to the affected area, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding excessive jaw movement can help manage symptoms.

Dietary Changes

Adopting a softer diet can ease the burden on the jaw joint and reduce discomfort.

Physical Therapy

A qualified physical therapist can tailor a program to address specific TMJ issues and strengthen jaw muscles while improving mobility.

Medical Interventions

If conservative approaches to TMJ treatment don’t work, the next step may be medical intervention, such as:

Medications

Healthcare professionals often recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and tricyclic antidepressants to alleviate pain and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorder.

Orthodontic Treatments

For individuals whose TMJ disorder is related to bite misalignment or teeth grinding, dentists may recommend orthodontic interventions (such as braces or oral splints).

Injections

Corticosteroid or BOTOX® injections into the joint can provide temporary relief for those experiencing severe pain and inflammation.

Surgical Options

Typically, surgical TMJ treatment is a last resort. Nonetheless, a medical professional may recommend:

Arthrocentesis

Arthrocentesis is a relatively simple and minimally invasive procedure. It requires the flushing of the joint with a sterile solution to remove debris and reduce inflammation.

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery gives doctors a better idea of what is causing joint issues. While this procedure may not always treat TMJ, it can help address structural issues contributing to the disorder.

Joint Replacement

In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be the only way to get relief. The surgery involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one.

Holistic and Conservative TMJ Treatment in Atlanta, GA

A holistic approach to TMJ treatment is key to getting lasting relief. So, if you’re living with jaw pain, get the patient-centered and comprehensive care you deserve with Dr. Lee at Smile 4 Grant Park today. You can request a TMJ consultation here, or you can call our Atlanta dentist at (404) 328-7177 for more.