Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that affects millions of people each year. TMJ pain relief is a concern for many, and Bend’s foremost dental expert, Dr. Derek Hurst, offers valuable insights into this issue. TMJ disorder refers to pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint is responsible for important movements, such as opening, closing, and moving the mouth from side to side.
What Causes TMJ Pain?
There are a variety of factors that can lead to TMJ pain, including stress, misalignment of the joint, displacement of the disc that cushions the joint, structural problems in the joint, or even a combination of multiple factors. When one or more of these issues occur, it can lead to the characteristic symptoms of TMJ disorder, including jaw pain, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and difficulty opening one’s mouth. Sometimes, TMJ pain can be exacerbated by certain movements such as chewing, yawning, and speaking.
How is TMJ Pain Diagnosed?
Dr. Hurst will use different diagnostic techniques, including a physical examination, x-rays, and even an MRI, in order to identify the root cause of your TMJ pain. It’s important to note that TMJ pain can also be indicative of other dental issues, such as tooth decay, bruxism (grinding your teeth), periodontal disease, and misalignments of the teeth. This is why it’s important to see a professional dentist and get an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for TMJ Pain
The first step in treating your TMJ pain is fully understanding the condition. Dr. Hurst will work with you to fully understand your TMJ disorder and its causes, and then come up with a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs. Some of the potential treatment options for TMJ disorder include:
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and even injectable medications may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Oral appliances: In some cases, a custom-made dental appliance can help maintain the position of the jaw in order to relieve symptoms and prevent further damage.
- Physical therapy: Certain exercises can help to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve range of motion, as well as reduce stress.
- Surgery: Because TMJ disorder is often complex, surgery may be recommended in severe cases. Surgical procedures can range from minimally invasive to open joint surgery, and can be performed to address structural abnormalities, joint dislocation, and other issues.
Preventing TMJ Pain
There are also a number of steps you can take in order to prevent TMJ pain. Some of these include:
- Managing stress
- Avoiding chewing excessively hard foods
- Alternating between using each side of the mouth for chewing
- Taking regular breaks from activities that require extensive jaw movement
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Hurst
At WesternSun Dental, we understand how debilitating TMJ pain can be, and Dr. Hurst has the expertise you need in order to effectively manage, treat, and prevent TMJ disorder. Don’t suffer any longer – make an appointment with Dr. Hurst today!