TMJ/TMD disorders and Treatment

TMJ  disorders are a group of issues related to the jaw joint. TMD (temporo mandibular disorders) can originate anywhere in the head and neck region. These disorders are either muscle or nerve issues. They sometimes can take the form of persistent pain in the face, head, neck. Sometimes the pain can originate from a disorder in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) of your jaw.

What is a temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that joins the jawbone to the skull.  TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the human body; any imbalances that occur in the joint can lead to chronic pain in the joint itself or the muscles of mastication and in the network of nerves that run through the face, neck, and head. 

At Hallmark Dental Group, Dr. Philip C Hall, has extensive training and expertise in craniofacial pains and neuromuscular dentistry, allowing him to diagnose and treat temporomandibular disorders (TMD) to help calm symptoms and provide long-lasting relief.

Symptoms of TMJ

Below are a few of the major signs and symptoms of TMJ:

• Headaches
• Soreness in the cheek or jaw area
• Pain in or around the ears
• Facial pain
• Limited opening of the jaws
• Clicking sounds while opening the mouth
• Locking of the jaw
• Difficulty chewing
• Difficulty or pain in opening the mouth
• Muscle dysfunction
• Painful mandibular movement
• Muscle spasm

TMJ/TMD Treatment 

Various treatment options are available at Hallmark Dental Group to help the patients improve harmony and functionality. When Dr. Hall confirms a diagnosis of a TMJ/TMD disorder, he will plan the course of treatment that best suits your needs.

Here are the possible treatment options we offer - we use one or a combination of these treatments customized to your specific condition.

• TMJ Oral Appliances(splints) / Bite Guards:  TMJ oral appliances or bite guards are made to help our patients stop teeth grinding or muscle clenching. Dr. Hall may recommend our patients conduct a bite relationship analysis and suggest relaxation techniques to lessen stress. The patients will also be prescribed muscle relaxants if needed.
• BOTOX™ Injections
• Trigger Point Dry Needling therapy: Acupuncture needles are used to release trigger points or tender muscle points to eradicate pain and relax the muscles. 
• Physical Therapy for TMJ: Manual physical therapy can help in myofascial release, TMJ mobilization, and deep muscle therapy.
• Medications:Dr. Hall may prescribe certain medications to be used in conjunction with non-surgical treatments to relieve the pain associated with TMJ disorders. 
• Ultrasound & cold laser:These treatments help with muscle relaxation

Besides, various other treatment options, self-care strategies, and lifestyle modifications are advised to help our patients relieve from TMJ/TMD pain: 

• Regular massages
• Breathing exercises and Yoga
• Behavior adjustment strategies
• Acupuncture
• Jaw exercises
• Rest your jaw
• Keep the teeth apart when you are not eating anything
• Eat soft foods
• Apply ice and heat
• Practice good posture

Without the correct diagnosis, proper care, and treatment, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)can lead to persistent jaw pain and debilitating headaches. 

Due to the nature of the TMJ joint, it is crucial to diagnose the symptoms properly. Call us at 435-310-4812 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hall.