If you suffer from the debilitating pain of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, ignoring the stiffness in your jaw, the ringing in your ears, and the head, neck, and backaches can be extremely difficult. Thankfully, your dentist offers solutions to help alleviate this discomfort. But how long can you expect to wait for relief? Here’s a closer look at two safe, effective TMJ treatments, and how soon you could start feeling better once you begin.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the joints that connect your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull (maxilla). They are what allow you to open and close so you can eat, speak, smile, and laugh. Because your mouth is constantly in motion, the TMJs are one of the most used joints in the body, and as a result, subject to plenty of wear and tear. Under ideal conditions, most people don’t think twice about them. However, if they become misaligned or overworked, it can cause a variety of painful problems that can be hard to ignore. Known as at TMJ disorder, patients can experience everything from jaw stiffness, tinnitus (ringing of the ears) neck aches, back aches, and even migraine headaches.
How Do Dentists Treat TMJ Disorders?
While at-home remedies like warm compresses, jaw exercises, and OTC pain relievers can sometimes help alleviate discomfort, for a more lasting solution, you’ll need to visit your dentist. Here are two common treatment options that have helped patients find lasting relief from TMJ disorder pain.
Biorejuvenation Dentistry
Biorejuvenation dentistry is a full mouth rehabilitation program that aims to realign the bite and alleviate pressure on the TMJ. The goals of treatment include stabilizing your jaw, relaxing strained muscles in the face, reducing the risk of premature tooth wear, and correcting the alignment of the top and bottom rows of teeth.
Biorejuvenation begins with a consultation with your dentist. If you qualify, you’ll use a Condylar Centering Orthotic (C2O) for about six weeks. This appliance is designed to stabilize the jaw joint in conjunction with physical therapy. Then, you’ll return to your dentist, where he will reevaluate your jaw, and if you still need further intervention, he may refer you to an orthodontist or surgeon.
Following your C2O device treatment, your dentist will ensure that your teeth are in good condition. This may result in the need for dental crowns or other restorations to repair damage caused by your TMJ disorder. Once your oral rehabilitation is complete, you’ll simply return to your dentist for regular checkups, where your dental team will monitor your jaw’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the TMJ that may be required with time.
Homeoblock Appliance
The Homeoblock Appliance is comfortable, removable device that can literally change the shape and size of your upper jaw (the maxilla) by placing pressure in specific spots. It relies on a concept known as epigenetic signaling to instruct your genes to change the way your oral structures develop, even in patients as old as their 70’s!
Patients will need to wear their Homeoblock Appliance to bed each night, and in about four to six months (though sometimes up to 18 months), these changes to their anatomy should result in lasting relief from TMJ disorder pain.
Which TMJ Disorder Treatment is Best for Me?
The best way to determine which TMJ treatment is ideal for your individual condition is to visit your dentist for a consultation. During this visit, he will examine your jaw and TMJ joints in person, take images and measurements, and recommend an appropriate device. Then, you’ll simply follow the aftercare steps, and depending on the method selected, you could start experiencing permanent relief from your symptoms in as little as four to six weeks. In fact, some patients notice changes within just a few weeks!
Remember, while there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ treatment for TMJ disorders, your dentist is pleased to offer several comfortable, permanent solutions for lasting relief. To learn more about your options and stop the cycle of debilitating temporomandibular joint pain, schedule a consultation for TMJ therapy with your dentist today!
About Dr. Cha
Dr. Steve Cha received his dental degree from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, and is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the American Orthodontic Society, and the Advanced Dental Implant Research & Education Center. A passionate lifelong learner, he also takes frequent continuing education courses through SPEAR Education. To schedule a consultation for TMJ Treatment at Lake Forest Dental, visit our website or call us today at 972-529-1800.