Do I Need TMJ Treatment?

This is a common question that is often asked by those who may be suffering from a wide range of symptoms known to be associated with the condition known as temporomandibular joint syndrome or TMJ. Here are a few of the more common symptoms associated with what can sometimes be a very uncomfortable condition. For example, those who have bouts of vertigo or dizziness may be experiencing severe effects associated with TMJ. Everything from difficulty chewing to pain and swelling in and around the facial area may indicate that the condition has become a real problem. A stiff, tight or sore jaw or neck may also indicate the presence of temporomandibular joint syndrome and a necessity for having a TMJ treatment.

Jaw and Neck Muscles

The good news is that there are many remedies for anyone who has been professionally diagnosed with TMJ syndrome. Many over-the-counter medications are used today as a way to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Another option is to consider eating softer foods and even gently massaging the jaw and neck muscles. There are a wide range of relaxation and stress management techniques that can be used to deal with the problem as well. Your dentist may prescribe dental splints which is simply a type of dental appliance that is placed in the mouth as a way to keep the teeth in alignment.

Dental Splints

Dental splints are highly effective at preventing tooth grinding. A dental splint looks very similar to a mouthguard and may be prescribed by your dental care provider or a dental specialist. Either way, using dental splints as a way to deal with TMJ is a smart strategy. Some patients may require physical therapy in order to deal with ongoing problems associated with TMJ. Other patients have been known to use acupuncture along with working closely with a dental care provider to achieve the best possible results. In more severe and serious cases, dental surgery may be the only solution.

Alleviate the Pain

Whatever the case may be one thing is certain and that is that TMJ is a real and serious condition for many people today. Talking with your dental care provider is the easiest way to determine whether you have this condition and what can be done to alleviate the pain. The good news is that today modern dentistry offers options and solutions for TMJ as well as virtually any other type of dental condition. Working closely with your dental care provider will ensure that you enjoy a better quality of life even if TMJ has become a serious problem. Talk with your Walnut Creek dentist, Dr. Darvishzadeh at Walnut Creek Dental today for more information on dealing with temporomandibular joint syndrome and TMJ treatment.

References:
[1] Full Jaw Restoration: Your options
[2] What is Orthodontics and what is it Used for Today