Are you experiencing a dull, persistent jaw ache? Perhaps, even a popping or clicking sound when you open your mouth? Not to mention the frequent headaches that can disrupt your quality of life. Unfortunately, there are millions of people suffering from this common disorder known as TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) – a condition that affects the jaw, surrounding facial muscles, skull and teeth – making it incredibly difficult to eat, speak and chew. Whether impacted through stress, injury, teeth grinding or minor misalignment, it’s good to know there are treatment options available to help manage this condition more effectively than ever before. This article will explore some of the main things you need to know to help you along the TMD journey.
Firstly, there is ‘no one size fits all’ approach
TMJ disorder can vary considerably among patients, ranging from very mild to chronic symptoms. Underlying causes, lifestyle choices and oral hygiene play a major role in whether TMJ improves or progressively gets worse over time. No matter where you’re at on the pain spectrum, it’s very important to see a dental professional for a thorough oral assessment and examination. This will help you make a more informed decision about what to do next, as well reducing pain symptoms and restoring better oral function.
It’s a Good Idea to Start with Some Basic Home Care
Most TMJ cases begin with really mild symptoms. From a random jaw click, subtle jaw pain or even a headache here and there, this can easily progress into something much worse, particularly if treatment is left for too long. If you’re experiencing mild symptoms, this can easily be managed at home without the urgent need for invasive surgical procedures.
Some basic home care we recommend include:
- Resting your jaw
- Avoid eating sticky, hard & chewy foods
- Limit jaw movement as much as possible
- No chewing gum as this will cause discomfort
- Mild jaw pain can be treated with a warm compress to reduce muscle pain
- If inflammation is present, a cold compress can be used to reduce irritation & excess heat
- Practice relaxation exercises, meditation & breathing to help reduce pressure around teeth grinding & clenching
For more information on devices to support TMJ symptoms, click here:
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/temporomandibular-disorders-tmd-devices
Ease Jaw Pain with a Night Guard
Using a night guard while sleeping is an excellent way to prevent teeth grinding and clenching. Your dentist in Canberra can custom design a night guard to fit your mouth perfectly, reducing the pressure between the upper and lower teeth. A well-designed night guard shouldn’t be uncomfortable at all, but create a more relaxed feel in the mouth that allows your muscles to recover during sleep time. Keep in mind, this is not a generic mouth guard that you buy over the counter at your local chemist. This is uniquely fitted to suit your bite, ensuring a more flexible, durable and comfortable fit.
When worn consistently, patients will notice reduced pain, joint damage and better jaw alignment. Depending on your oral assessment and diagnosis, your dentist may also recommend splints or other orthotic devices to support healing and TMJ management.
Commit To Doing Daily Jaw Exercises & Relaxation Therapies
Physical therapy is essential for improving joint stiffness, jaw restriction and encouraging general mobility. TMJ can become physically debilitating if left untreated. Your dentist or an allied health professional can guide you through some beneficial exercises and techniques aimed at strengthening jaw movement and surrounding facial muscles.
These exercises may include things such as simple posture therapy, neck, shoulder and facial massage (remember, it’s all connected), physiotherapy and myotherapy. If you can start addressing this issue with a combination of different therapies, you may begin to notice relief immediately.
If pain persists, don’t hesitate to book another appointment with your Canberra dentist for a more comprehensive examination.
Corticosteroid Injections for More Serious TMJ Cases
If home care exercises aren’t really making much of a difference in reducing pain, your dentist may possibly recommend something stronger such as corticosteroid injections. This targets deeper pain and dysfunction without the need to undergo a surgical procedure.
Another alternative option is Botox. Although it’s not something many people know about, Botox injections can be strategically placed around the jaw and facial muscles to assist with an overactive jaw, grinding and clenching. These advanced options are excellent ways to minimise inflammation, discomfort and temporarily improve your TMJ condition. Remember to keep track of your symptoms and ensure you stay on top of any further changes. This is not a quick fix but may certainly help with relieving pain in the short term.
Surgical Procedures: Only For Urgent Cases
Typically, any type of surgical procedure for TMJ is only recommended as a last resort. Chronic TMJ cases usually come with a higher risk of joint, inflammation and structural damage. Some surgical procedures range from Arthrocentesis (Joint Flushing) which is slightly less invasive than other procedures such as joint replacement and repairs. It’s best to speak to your dentist about the risks and recovery time with each procedure. It’s also comforting to know that very few patients with TMJ will actually need surgery – which is a positive thing.
Click here for other TMJ treatment options:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350945
Knowing When to Seek Professional Help Is Essential
As you already know, TMJ disorder can vary in its severity, underlying causes and general timeline of symptoms. Whether it’s been several weeks or months, it can have a major impact on your quality of life. Many mild cases can often be treated effectively at home; however, more chronic symptoms may need medical intervention. Of course, the best approach is to get it treated as fast as possible before it progressively gets worse. My Dentist Canberra can provide you with a specialised TMJ oral examination and assessment, ensuring you stay on top of your oral health, restoring jaw function and minimising painful symptoms. Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your personal requirements.
TMJ Treatment Option Questions
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder is known as the Temporomandibular Joint and refers to a range of symptoms affecting the facial muscles that control jaw function and movement. This can be caused by teeth grinding (teeth grinding), injury, stress and arthritis.
What symptoms are associated with TMJ?
This can vary between individuals however the most common symptoms include jaw ache and pain, jaw locking, earache, headaches and difficulty eating, speaking and chewing.
Will I experience less pain wearing a night guard?
Wearing a night guard will significantly reduce pain for mild to moderate TMJ cases. It prevents teeth grinding, clenching, relieves pressure around the jaw area and ultimately improves sleep.
Should I see other allied health professionals?
Yes! It doesn’t hurt to seek the help of allied health professionals alongside a dentist or oral surgeon, to help accelerate healing and reduce pain symptoms – particularly if it’s interfering with your daily eating, work and lifestyle.
Some positive ways to manage TMJ disorder includes mindful breathing techniques, meditation, physiotherapy and massage therapy.
Will TMJ go away on its own?
Mild TMJ conditions can resolve itself with regular rest, pain relief and stress management. However, if you don’t address the underlying cause and symptoms, it can get worse over time. It’s important to book an appointment with your Canberra dentist for a thorough oral examination and assessment.
