Today our team is going to give you three common TMJ disorder (TMD) treatment options you can consider in the future.
Home Treatments
Taking over-the-counter medications can help relieve any muscle pain or swelling you are experiencing. Apply an ice pack to the side of your face for 10 minutes, stretching your jaw and following the ice pack with a warm towel for about 5 minutes.
Eating softer foods like mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, soup, fish or beans can reduced the amount of chewing you do. Avoid large, crunchy, hard or chewy foods that require you to chew longer or open your mouth wider.
Traditional Treatments
Your dentist or doctor may prescribe a higher dose of pain medication for pain or swelling. They may also prescribe a muscle relaxer for your jaw if you tend to grind or clench your teeth.
A splint or night guard can also be another effective way in treating TMD. Both of these treatments are mouthpieces made from plastic that fit over your top and bottom teeth, ensuring they are separated. The mouthpieces help lessen clenching or grinding and can be a great way of putting your teeth in a more correct position.
Surgery
There are certain circumstances that require a more surgical approach to fix the problem. Surgery should be your last option for TMJ disorder, and should be thought out carefully. Don’t hesitate to speak to other dentists about your options. Depending on the condition or problem, your dentist may recommend open-joint surgery, arthroscopy, or arthrocentesis.
If you suffer from TMJ disorder, please contact our office today at 801-295-7171 with any of your questions regarding treatment options.