TMJ/TMD and oral appliance therapy for treatment
TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to conditions affecting this specific joint and the muscles surrounding it. A physician or dentist, including our team at Las Cruces Dental Associates, PC, can properly diagnose this condition. Patients of the Las Cruces, New Mexico area who have the symptoms of TMJ/TMD will want to get a definitive diagnosis and effective solutions for relief.
What are some TMJ symptoms and treatments available for patients?
Some common symptoms of TMJ/TMD include:
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Clicking or popping from the jaw joint
- Headaches or earaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s daily life and should not be ignored. Thankfully, there are various treatment options available for TMJ/TMD patients.
What are some treatment options for TMJ/TMD?
Our dentists at Las Cruces Dental Associates, PC, have several treatment options that might benefit our patients diagnosed with this condition. Common solutions for TMJ/TMD may include:
- Mouthguards or splints to help alleviate pressure on the jaw joint
- Physical therapy exercises designed to strengthen the jaw muscles and improve range of motion
- Medications, like common muscle relaxants or pain relievers, to manage symptoms
- Botox injections to reduce muscle tension in the jaw area
- Surgery in more severe cases
Will treatment offer TMJ headache relief?
Treatment of TMJ/TMD will typically relieve other symptoms that can become bothersome and chronic, such as chronic headaches and migraines. Medication can also reduce the tension that leads to these headaches, while treatment of the condition itself can resolve these side effects, too!
Where can I find lock jaw and temporomandibular joint treatment options in the Las Cruces, New Mexico area?
Our dentists at Las Cruces Dental Associates, PC, believe in providing new and returning patients and families with the care they need to feel their best and address any oral health concerns. If you have been diagnosed with TMJ disorder and want to speak to a team with years of experience providing care and solutions, we invite you to call our office at (575) 339-1838.
