Three Effective Ways to Treat TMJ Pain

Experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort when chewing can be more than just a passing nuisance—it can significantly impact your daily life. If you’re facing these symptoms, you might be dealing with TMJ disorder, a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to the bones of your face.

The good news is that you don’t have to keep living with jaw discomfort and pain. There are several effective treatments that can offer relief and improve your quality of life.

TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a pivotal role in the basic movements of the jaw. It allows you to chew, speak, make facial expressions, and even yawn. TMJ disorders can come about from a variety of factors. Some include stress and tension, malocclusion (tooth misalignment), arthritis, jaw injury, or even habitual teeth grinding.

Symptoms include:

• Persistent or intermittent pain in the jaw, neck, or face
• Difficulty chewing
• Jaw stiffness
• Difficulty with your range of motion in the jaw
• Clicking or popping sounds from the jaw when opening or closing the mouth
• Disturbed sleep

TMJ Pain Solutions

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you might find yourself stuck wondering where to turn. Many patients are surprised to learn that your dentist may be able to help with TMD treatment.

Night Guards

One of the most common and non-invasive treatments for TMJ pain caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) is the use of a night guard. A night guard is a custom-made device worn at night that fits over your teeth. It creates a barrier to protect the teeth from grinding against each other while you sleep.

This not only helps reduce the stress on your TMJ but also prevents additional tooth damage that can occur from grinding, such as enamel wear and cracks or chips. The custom fit ensures comfort and effectiveness, making it an ideal first step for many sufferers of TMJ pain caused by tooth grinding.

Orthodontic Evaluation

Misalignment of teeth or an improper bite can also be a root cause of TMJ disorders because these issues may place uneven pressure on the jaw joint. If you don’t know where to start, ask your dentist. We can examine your jaw structure, bite, and tooth alignment and let you know whether or not to refer you for an orthodontic evaluation. An orthodontist can determine if braces or other corrective treatments are necessary.

Orthodontic solutions not only improve the functionality of your jaw but also enhance the aesthetics of your smile, offering a double benefit. It’s a more long-term approach compared to night guards, aiming to address the root cause of TMJ pain through structural correction.

Botox Injections

Botox, traditionally known for its cosmetic applications, is also an effective treatment for TMJ disorders. Botox is a neuromodulator that inhibits the nerve signals that cause muscle contraction. Injecting Botox relaxes the muscles around the jaw, relieving the tension and pain associated with TMJ.

This treatment can be particularly effective for those whose TMJ pain is linked to muscle tension or spasms. It’s a relatively quick procedure with minimal discomfort, and the effects last for months.

Which TMJ Treatment is Right for You?

Dealing with TMJ pain doesn’t have to be a part of your daily routine. With effective treatments available, there’s no reason to continue to suffer.

Each of these treatments offers a unique approach to alleviating pain and improving the function of your jaw. The key to determining which treatment is right for your TMJ pain is getting to the root cause of your TMD.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, we encourage you to book an appointment with our office. Together, we can get to the bottom of your jaw pain and decide the most suitable treatment option for your situation so you can live a pain-free life.