You might not think much about your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) until it hurts. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can be a source of persistent discomfort. Not only does your jaw click and pop, but the dysfunction can make it difficult to eat comfortably.
If you've been diagnosed with TMD or suspect you may have it, you might wonder what treatments are available and what they entail. Here, the team at Dr. Darj Dental in El Paso, Texas — led by Mehrnoosh Darj, DDS — share tips for preparing for your TMJ treatment.
Before you can get started with TMJ treatment, you first have to pinpoint what’s making your jaw hurt. Malocclusion, bruxism, jaw arthritis, and acute injuries are just a few reasons why your jaw might hurt. Even stress can exacerbate your symptoms.
During your consultation, be prepared to discuss your medical history, what symptoms you’re experiencing, and any factors that may contribute to your TMJ issues. This information shapes your treatment plan.
To determine the most effective treatment plan, Dr. Darj may recommend X-rays to get a detailed view of your jaw joint or other diagnostic tools to help identify the root cause of your disorder.
TMJ treatment options vary depending on the severity and root cause of your symptoms. Common treatments include:
These options require the least amount of preparation on your part. Conservative treatments for jaw pain may involve lifestyle and habit changes, such as avoiding hard or chewy foods, practicing relaxation techniques, and using hot or cold compresses.
Jaw exercises and physical therapy can help improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension.
In some cases, Dr. Darj may prescribe medications like muscle relaxants, pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage your TMJ symptoms.
Customized oral appliances may help alleviate pressure on your jaw joint and prevent teeth grinding. This is particularly beneficial if bruxism is the source of your jaw pain.
If your jaw pain is related to a bad bite (malocclusion), you might benefit from orthodontic treatment. The ClearCorrect® and Invisalign® systems correct bite issues by slowly moving your teeth into the ideal location through a series of clear aligners.
After Dr. Darj has identified the source of your pain and you have a plan to address it, you can understand how to best prepare for your TMJ treatment.
Your specific preparation steps may include:
In other words, how you prepare for TMJ treatment depends on what’s causing your pain, but the good news is that you don’t have to walk this journey alone. Dr. Darj and her team are here every step of the way.
Relief from jaw pain is just a call or click away. Contact our office at 915-213-3767 or use our online booking system to set up a TMJ consultation.
