TMJ Disorders and Their Causes
Houston TMJ specialist is associated with disk or cartilage injury or erosion in the joint. The root cause is not always obvious. However, some medical factors add to the difficulty. These are some examples:
Various types of joint degeneration or erosion habitual teeth grinding or clenching, medically termed as bruxism congenital or genetic disorders with the jaw structure or TMJ areas poor posture, persistent stress, a lack of sleep, and an improper diet are among factors that might contribute to TMJ difficulties. The effects of orthodontic braces can also contribute to the development of TMJD.
Broken jaws and other head, neck, jaw, or joint injuries are more visible causes of temporomandibular joint disease (TMJD), although they are also less prevalent.
Treatment Options at Home and Alternatives
Even before getting therapy, a patient can try several home remedies before visiting Houston TMJ specialist to alleviate the discomfort caused by TMJ issues, such as:
- Chewing gum and sticky or chewy foods should be avoided.
- Consuming soft meals or chopping food into smaller pieces.
- Stretching and massaging jaw muscles with care.
- Using cold or hot packs to relieve pain.
- Pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are available over-the-counter.
Alternative remedies for TMJ pain can also be beneficial. Acupuncture, concentrated relaxation, yoga, meditation, counselling to manage stress and anxiety, and other forms of therapy or treatment may be included.
Acupuncturists, chiropractors, homeopaths, and naturopaths are examples of practitioners who give these types of alternative treatments.
However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or include chronic or recurring discomfort in the jaw or ear area, it is necessary to seek medical attention.
TMJ Disorder Medical Treatment Options
Non-surgical Alternatives
Anti-inflammatories and pain relievers: If over-the-counter pain relievers do not work, a doctor or dentist may prescribe stronger pain relievers for a short period of time.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): These drugs are mostly used to treat depression, but they are also used in low doses to help with pain reduction, insomnia, and bruxism management.
Muscular relaxants: These drugs, which are sometimes needed for a few days or weeks, can help reduce discomfort, especially in TMJDs caused by muscular spasms.
Non-drug Treatment Options
Mouth guards or oral splints: These soft or firm devices, known medically as occlusal appliances, are placed inside the mouth over one's teeth, typically overnight. They provide relief to patients suffering from TMJ pain, however it is unclear why.
Therapy for the body: Stretching and strengthening exercises, wet heat and ice, and ultrasound techniques may be used.
Counseling: Counseling and education might assist a patient in better understanding the causes of their TMJD. This could involve learning more about behaviors like teeth clenching or grinding, chewing one's fingernails, or leaning on one's chin that can cause additional pain.
TMJD may necessitate surgery if other therapies fail to alleviate the disease. Before proceeding, make sure to examine the risks, effects, and outcomes of each alternative.
TMJ Treatment Surgical Procedures
Arthrocentesis: It is a technique that includes inserting small needles into the TMJ and forcing a stream of fluid through the joint to clear out any existing debris or inflammatory waste.
Injections: This is a less popular treatment method that involves injecting botulinum toxin type A (also known as Botox and other names) into the jaw area, specifically into the chewing muscles.
Arthroscopy: A little thin tube is inserted into the joint space. An arthroscope (camera) is implanted, which allows a Houston TMJ specialist surgeon to fix the joint using small surgical instruments.
Modified condylotomy: A procedure in which the mandible (lower jaw) is operated on but not the joint itself. It aids in the treatment of discomfort and jaw locking by providing greater space for the joint to move.
Open-joint surgery: It may be required if non-invasive, pharmacological, and non-drug therapy have failed to relieve TMJ symptoms or if there is a structural problem with the joint. This operation entails surgical repair or replacement of the joint.
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