TMJ dysfunctions are dental conditions affecting the jaw joints and surrounding ligaments and muscles. The dental disease can cause several issues, including headaches, jaw pain, challenges opening your mouth, and toothaches.
There is no single cause of TMJ. Instead, it can be due to many factors, including bruxism, stress, arthritis, malocclusion, and jaw injury.
Sometimes, TMJ disorder symptoms can disappear on their own. However, if your symptoms persist, our dentists could recommend different treatment options, depending on the pain’s severity and cause. Typically, we use non-invasive options first, like non-surgical treatments and medications. If the symptoms fail to improve, you might require surgery.
Some of the medication options you can use to relieve pain stemming from TMJ disorders include the following:
- Anti-inflammatories and pain medication.
- Muscle relaxants.
- Tricyclic antidepressants.
Our recommended non-medication therapies for TMJ disorders include the following:
- Physical therapy.
- Mouth guards or oral splints (occlusal appliances).
- Counseling.