If you are dealing with the discomfort caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, Dr. Kelley Mingus is here to lead the way towards relief and recovery. This comprehensive guide provides practical tips from the well-renowned TMJ specialist based in Bend, Oregon, Dr. Kelley Mingus.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
To seek relief from TMJ pain efficiently, a solid understanding of the disorder is essential. Temporomandibular joint disorder involves issues with the jaw, jaw joints, and the facial muscles surrounding them. Some common symptoms of TMJ disorder include facial pain, discomfort while chewing, difficulty closing the mouth, opening it too wide, and a clicking or popping sound in the jaw. The causes of TMJ disorder may vary, ranging from arthritis to teeth grinding or clenching to excessive gum chewing.
Practical Tips to Help Alleviate TMJ Pain
Relief from TMJ pain can often be achieved through some practical strategies. Here are some tips offered by Dr. Kelley Mingus to help manage this discomfort:
Stretching and Relaxation Exercises
Practicing jaw exercises can be beneficial. These exercises strengthen the jaw muscles, increase mobility, and promote healing. Dr. Kelley Mingus advises consulting with a specialist to learn the correct techniques.
Over-the-Counter Analgesics
Over-the-counter analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorder.
Use of Heat Packs
Applying a heat pack to the affected area can be soothing and help reduce muscle tension. This is a practical at-home remedy that can bring temporary relief from TMJ pain.
Avoid Hard Foods
Chewing hard or crunchy foods can aggravate TMJ pain. Dr. Kelley Mingus suggests eating soft foods and avoiding excessive chewing to give your jaw muscles time to heal.
Professional Treatment Options
When practical tips and home remedies are not enough to alleviate TMJ pain, seeking professional medical advice becomes crucial. Dr. Kelley Mingus and his team at Bend, Oregon are experienced in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Their treatment approach includes advanced imaging, muscle examinations, bite analysis, and customized treatment planning.
Customized Treatments
Customized treatment plans include a range of options tailored to individual needs to ensure the most effective course of action.
Non-invasive Therapies
These include physical therapy, counseling, and occlusal appliances (like mouth guards or oral splints).
Medications
Certain medications can provide relief from TMJ-related pain. These include pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and, sometimes, antidepressants.
Surgical Procedures
When the TMJ disorder is severe, or if conservative treatments do not help, surgical procedures might be an option, including arthrocentesis and arthroscopy.
Finally, Dr. Kelley Mingus emphasizes the importance of also focusing on optimizing overall health as it plays a vital role in TMJ relief. Through a comprehensive blend of practical tips and professional treatments, Dr. Kelley Mingus has helped many individuals to successfully manage their TMJ pain and return to their normal lifestyle.