TMJ Treatment – Allen, TX
Treatment Options for TMJ
There are many possible ways to treat TMJ and jaw pain, but finding the best therapy depends on properly diagnosing the root cause.
We recommend starting with the most conservative treatment first, in accordance with many experts (https://insights.dentistry.tamu.edu/tmj-disorders-call-for-conservative-care/).
Non-invasive TMJ Treatments
If your TMJ symptoms are mild and only periodic, you may be able to relieve it by eating soft foods. Heat or ice applications are also helpful for some. Avoid excessive jaw movement, such as chewing gum or opening your mouth too wide.
TMJ disorder can often be relieved simply through learning how to relax your jaw and facial muscles. Relaxation and stretching exercises can greatly help with this. We have seen success after referring patients to physical therapy when needed.
Other times, more intervention is required.
Dental Appliances for TMJ Treatment
Many TMJ disorders are exacerbated with teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. A dental appliance can help prevent further damage and relieve pain.
While night guards are mainly used to protect teeth from grinding or clenching (bruxism), they are sometimes helpful for TMJ disorder.
TMJ Splints
However, a TMJ splint is more effective in alleviating TMJ problems. A splint looks similar to a night guard, but it is designed for precise jaw positions to stabilize the craniofacial system.
A TMJ splint can be either a nighttime or daytime device.
Nighttime splints are worn overnight to help manage grinding and clenching. These splints prevent stresses transferred to the jaw, neck and muscles to help alleviate TMJ problems.
Daytime splints are worn throughout the day. They are meant to provide an optimized bite position and help stabilize the jaw joint and muscles.
Advantages of a Custom-Made Splint
There are several advantages of a custom splint. First is precision fit. Digital scans are used to record accurate position and shape of teeth. This is done to make the splint fit comfortably.
A second advantage is correct jaw position. Each case often requires a specialized jaw position to best stabilize the TMJ and allow for healing. A custom splint is made at this position and calibrated at your visit.
Finally, durability is a feature of custom splints. We use the latest technology and highest quality materials for splints. They are biocompatible and also easy to clean.
Botox Therapy for TMJ
We also offer Botox injections for TMJ. This can often relieve pain caused by clenching and grinding (read more about Botox treatment for TMJ).
Orthodontic Treatment
On occasion, orthodontic treatment using braces may also help relieve TMJ symptoms. This works to correct bite discrepancies and jaw misalignment issues. If necessary, we can refer patients to a qualified orthodontist.
Surgery
In rare cases, TMJ disorder may require surgical intervention. There are many surgical options available to correct damaged joints, and some are more invasive than others. If a case requires surgical intervention, we collaborate with a trusted network of local oral surgeons to help correct the issues.
Success Stories
I was having really bad TMJ pain and limited range of motion with loud popping. Dr. McDavid was able to make me a splint and set me up with a physical therapist that really helped decrease the pain and clicking as well as improve range of motion. Wish I had done it sooner!
I have seen a multitude of doctors for TMJ. Everything I’ve tried has been helpful for a short time, but the oral appliance Dr. McDavid fitted me for has kept my TMJ pain away long term!
They diagnosed and solved my TMJ problems quickly and easily. Office and nursing staff is very friendly and helpful. I’m very satisfied with their service.
Don’t Suffer in Pain!
At Texas Sleep & TMJ Solutions, our practice is focused solely on dealing with Sleep Apnea and TMJ treatment. Some people have overlapping problems with both of these issues, but many only suffer one or the other.
You don’t need to suffer any longer. Our TMJ experts can help.
Contact Us Today and Get Relief
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