Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJD) is a debilitating condition that affects approximately 10% of people in some way, shape, or form. Although the symptoms can vary in severity, they may range from daily irritation to extreme pain and debilitation. Around 10 million Americans are thought to have TMJ disorder. Oddly enough, younger adults are more at-risk than more mature individuals, with women being twice as likely to have TMD than their male counterparts.
Should I Have Surgery for TMJ Disorder?
Dental experts agree that oral surgery for TMJ disorder should be avoided whenever possible. Since surgical treatments are irreversible, their success or failure will permanently impact the day-to-day activities of TMD patients. Surgery to repair or reconstruct the joint could still result in a limited range of motion, stiffness, or minimal impact on pain relief.
As such, non-surgical treatment for TMJ conditions is preferred and regarded as the standard of care, whenever possible.
Non-Surgical Options for TMJ Disorder
Bite Splints or Mouthguards — One of the most proven and effective non-surgical TMJ treatments is the use of an occlusal guard. These bite splints, mouthguards, and nightguards place a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, thus eliminating full muscle engagement around your TMJ. When the joint cannot fully contract, it eases muscle tension to naturally relax the tissues surrounding it.
Depending on when you’re prone to clenching and grinding (bruxism) we may need to fit you with a more discreet daytime bite splint, or a larger nightguard to sleep in. Bruxism appliances don’t just protect your TMJ, they also eliminate the risk of fractured or worn-down teeth caused by the subconscious grinding taking place.
The best bite splint to wear is one that’s professionally fitted by one of our Long Island dentists. The snug, contoured appliance will stay in place for better protection but it will also be more comfortable to wear than generic trays you can find online or in stores. Although quite durable, excessive TMJ tension can cause your teeth to gradually wear through an occlusal guard. If that’s the case, you’ll know that the splint is doing its job; it’s much better (and more affordable) to replace a splint than it is to restore multiple broken teeth.
Botox Injections — Although Botox is predominantly used for anti-aging treatments in areas of fine lines or wrinkles, it can also be incorporated as an off-label therapy for managing TMJ disorder. It’s thought by some practitioners to serve as a natural muscle relaxer, thus minimizing the need for prescription drugs.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) — Inflammation or swelling is typically one of the biggest factors when it comes to joint or dental pain. The same can be said for TMJ disorder. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication such as Motrin or ibuprofen as directed can help temporarily relieve painful flare-ups. Feel free to incorporate moist heat or an ice pack as needed. If your TMD is severe, prescription medication may also include muscle relaxers as needed. However, stronger pain pills or prescriptions are typically not suggested. If necessary, it may mean that you are a candidate for actual TMJ surgery.
Orthodontic Treatment, Tooth Replacement — The alignment and occlusion (biting relationship) of your teeth and jaws play a direct role in your TMJ health. For instance, if your upper and lower teeth do not meet together appropriately or you’re only chewing on one side of your mouth, it will gradually strain one or both of your joints.
By correcting the alignment of your teeth and replacing the ones that are missing, you can balance your bite and distribute biting pressure equally throughout your mouth. Treatment such as braces, Invisalign, dental implants, or fixed bridges are just a few examples.
Massage and Physical Therapy — Physical palpation and massage can do wonders for sore joints, including your TMJ. You can choose to massage your facial muscles, joints, jaw, and scalp on your own or use it as an excuse to go ahead and book a professional massage.
Likewise, physical therapy may be a must-have for debilitated joints. By training your TMJ to move properly and guiding the muscles around it, you can re-learn everyday motions that are healthier and gentler on your body.
Lifestyle and Dietary Changes — Are you prone to biting your nails, chewing on ice, or always having a piece of gum in your mouth? The extra tension that you’re putting on your TMJ will continually cause TMD flare-ups from the overuse. Make a conscious effort to identify those lifestyle habits and eliminate them altogether. But if you do need that stick of gum every now and then, go with a soft sugar-free option and limit how often you chew it.
Stress Management — Sometimes the major contributing factor to our TMJ disorder is clenching and grinding our teeth out of stress. Perhaps you have an extremely strenuous career, are going through a divorce, or simply unable to avoid the stressors of a unique circumstance in your daily life. When that’s the case, there are other ways to help you better cope with day-to-day tension and the way your body and body processes it.
Cognitive behavior therapy is a classic example. Through modified thought processes and mindfulness, you can physically change the way you process stress and reduce those chemicals and reactions. Other people may respond just as well to rigorous exercise — such as running or cycling — a few days per week. Or maybe you enjoy yoga and meditation. Whatever it is, experiment to find the one that works for you. And last but not least, never hesitate to ask your physician about a lighter dose of prescription medication if chronic anxiety or depression is a true medical concern.
TMJ Treatment in Suffolk County
Are you struggling with TMJ pain, popping, or constant headaches? You could have undiagnosed TMD. Our multi-specialty general dentistry practice offers guidance and non-surgical TMJ treatment options to help you reduce pain and get back to living.
Contact our Long Island dentists today to reserve an exam.