The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is the joint that connects the jaw bone (mandible) to the skull. It functions as a sliding hinge to facilitate the movements required during feeding and talking. There are a number of TMJ disorders that may make you need the services of a dentist. They include pain of the jaw, discomfort while chewing, facial pain, and a locked jaw among others. There are a number of things on TMJ treatment Atlanta patients need to know.
The exact cause is not identified in most of the cases of TMJ disorders. That notwithstanding, there are just a few possibilities. In many of these cases, the underlying problem is bone erosion caused by the shock absorbing disk or joint displacement from the anatomical position. The other likely events include damage of joint cartilage by inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and traumatic injury by blunt force trauma.
Most of the cases that are seen in medical and dental clinics affect women in the 20 to 40 year age bracket but the conditions may be seen at any age. When one visits their primary doctor or dentist, a history focusing on the onset and duration of symptoms, similar complaints in the past and the presence or absence of psychological stress is taken. A physical exam will be conducted followed by radiological imaging studies of the joint.
The treatment options that are used for TMJ disorders are broadly categorized into two: surgical and non-surgical. Drugs are the most important among the non-surgical options. There are various categories of pharmacological agents considered for various disorders including analgesic agents, antidepressants, sedatives and muscle relaxants. The analgesic agents needed can easily be obtained over the counter. The severe cases may require stronger prescription drugs such as opioids.
Non-pharmacological therapies may be used alone or alongside the drugs. Bite guards or oral splints are quite effective in persons with constant jaw pain. The mechanism through which they work is largely obscure. Physical therapies are another important category of non-pharmacological therapies. They include stretching, massage, and heat and cold therapies. Counseling is needed in cases of anxiety disorders.
Surgery and other invasive procedures are considered when the non-invasive options are ineffective. Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive technique in which a needle is inserted into the joint space to aspirate any inflammatory products and debris causing discomfort. Surgery is recommended if an anatomical defect is suspected. The joint may be realigned or replaced with prostheses.
One may consider some self-help remedies at home. Avoiding tension-related habits helps reduce the frequency of suffering from these disorders. Such may include, for example, frequent clenching of the jaw, teeth grinding or chewing nonfood objects such as pencils. A change of diet may be necessary to avoid overusing the jaw. Persons with frequent episodes are advised to eat softer foods and to avoid chewing gum.
There are a number of alternative medicine options that may help alleviate chronic pain associated with TMJ disorders. One of the most commonly used is acupuncture. This is a technique in which special hair-thin needles are inserted into the painful region and other regions in the body. Controlled breathing and other relaxation techniques have also been used with varying rates of success. This option works by relaxing the affected muscles.
The exact cause is not identified in most of the cases of TMJ disorders. That notwithstanding, there are just a few possibilities. In many of these cases, the underlying problem is bone erosion caused by the shock absorbing disk or joint displacement from the anatomical position. The other likely events include damage of joint cartilage by inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and traumatic injury by blunt force trauma.
Most of the cases that are seen in medical and dental clinics affect women in the 20 to 40 year age bracket but the conditions may be seen at any age. When one visits their primary doctor or dentist, a history focusing on the onset and duration of symptoms, similar complaints in the past and the presence or absence of psychological stress is taken. A physical exam will be conducted followed by radiological imaging studies of the joint.
The treatment options that are used for TMJ disorders are broadly categorized into two: surgical and non-surgical. Drugs are the most important among the non-surgical options. There are various categories of pharmacological agents considered for various disorders including analgesic agents, antidepressants, sedatives and muscle relaxants. The analgesic agents needed can easily be obtained over the counter. The severe cases may require stronger prescription drugs such as opioids.
Non-pharmacological therapies may be used alone or alongside the drugs. Bite guards or oral splints are quite effective in persons with constant jaw pain. The mechanism through which they work is largely obscure. Physical therapies are another important category of non-pharmacological therapies. They include stretching, massage, and heat and cold therapies. Counseling is needed in cases of anxiety disorders.
Surgery and other invasive procedures are considered when the non-invasive options are ineffective. Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive technique in which a needle is inserted into the joint space to aspirate any inflammatory products and debris causing discomfort. Surgery is recommended if an anatomical defect is suspected. The joint may be realigned or replaced with prostheses.
One may consider some self-help remedies at home. Avoiding tension-related habits helps reduce the frequency of suffering from these disorders. Such may include, for example, frequent clenching of the jaw, teeth grinding or chewing nonfood objects such as pencils. A change of diet may be necessary to avoid overusing the jaw. Persons with frequent episodes are advised to eat softer foods and to avoid chewing gum.
There are a number of alternative medicine options that may help alleviate chronic pain associated with TMJ disorders. One of the most commonly used is acupuncture. This is a technique in which special hair-thin needles are inserted into the painful region and other regions in the body. Controlled breathing and other relaxation techniques have also been used with varying rates of success. This option works by relaxing the affected muscles.
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