Relief for TMJ Pain: Houston Specialist Offers Solutions

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. It can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and head, and can even lead to difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. If you are suffering from TMJ pain, there are several solutions available to relieve your symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some of the treatments recommended by a TMJ specialist in Houston.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

There is no single cause of TMJ disorder. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding or clenching, stress, and misaligned teeth or jaw. The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from person to person and can include:

Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, and neck
Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
Earaches or headaches
A tired feeling in the face or jaw
Swelling on one or both sides of the face

TMJ Treatment Options

The treatment for TMJ disorder will depend on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some of the treatment options available:

Lifestyle Changes

In some cases, lifestyle changes can help relieve TMJ pain. These changes may include:

Eating soft foods: Hard and chewy foods can aggravate TMJ symptoms. Opt for soft foods that are easy to chew.
Avoiding extreme jaw movements: Avoid activities that require you to open your mouth wide, such as singing or yelling.
Applying heat or cold: Apply a warm towel or ice pack to the affected area to help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

Medications

Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve TMJ pain. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever or muscle relaxant to help alleviate your discomfort.

Dental Treatments

Dental treatments such as dental splints or mouthguards can help reduce teeth grinding and clenching, which can contribute to TMJ disorder. Orthodontic treatment or dental restoration may also be necessary to correct misaligned teeth or jaw.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help alleviate TMJ pain by strengthening the muscles that support the jaw and improving jaw mobility. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises, massage, or ultrasound therapy to help relieve your symptoms.

Surgery

Surgery is usually a last resort for TMJ disorder and is only recommended in severe cases. Surgical options may include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open-joint surgery.

TMJ Pain Prevention Tips

While there is no surefire way to prevent TMJ disorder, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition:

Practice good posture: Keep your head and neck aligned over your shoulders.
Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth: This can put pressure on the TMJ and lead to pain and discomfort.
Avoid chewing gum: Chewing gum can tire out the muscles in your jaw and exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
Take breaks when talking or eating: Give your jaw a break by taking frequent breaks when engaging in activities that require a lot of jaw movement.

Conclusion

TMJ disorder can cause significant pain and discomfort, but there are several treatments available to alleviate your symptoms. If you are experiencing TMJ pain, talk to your doctor about which treatment options may be right for you. By following these tips and seeking treatment early, you can reduce your risk of developing more severe TMJ symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.