TMJ Treatment

‘TMJ’ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. Located in front of each ear, this muscle serves as the hinge that allows your jaw to move up and down and side to side, enabling speech, chewing, and yawning. Impairment to this vital muscle (TMJ Disorders or TMD) can naturally cause difficulties, so you must find an experienced dentist that can provide you with TMJ treatment in Palatine.

 

Causes and Symptoms of TMD

 

The most common causes for TMD tend to be trauma-related, resulting from a heavy blow or whiplash.  TMD can cause severe pain and discomfort, which can be short-lived, but in some cases, it can last several years. The most common symptoms of TMD include pain or tenderness on either side of your face or jaw, difficulties opening your mouth, clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw when speaking or chewing, and swelling.

 

Treatments

 

There are several types of for TMD depending on the severity of the condition –

 

Medications:

 

  • Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
  • Tricyclic antidepressants – although used to treat depression, in low doses they can be used for pain relief, bruxism control and sleeplessness
  • Muscle relaxants – these types of medication are sometimes used for a short period to relieve pain and prevent muscle spasms caused by TMD

 

Therapies:

 

  • Oral splints or mouth guards – this helps prevent teeth grinding or similar causes for TMD
  • Physical treatment – along with exercises to stretch and strengthen the jaw muscle, ultrasound, moist heat, and ice can also help alleviate symptoms

 

In the more extreme cases, injections and even surgery might be necessary to address structural problems in the joint. In these cases, your doctor or dentist will evaluate the specifics of your case and recommend the least intrusive alternative.

 

Get the TMJ Treatment in Palatine You Need

 

The pain and discomfort caused by TMJ Disorders can be exacerbated over time if left unattended. You must address the symptoms before you suffer any significant damage. For the best TMJ treatment in Palatine, contact our office today!