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TMJ Disorders refers to problems with the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) which is the connecting hinge mechanism between the base of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jaw (mandible).
A growing population of people are having problems like Bruxism (grinding), Headaches, Muscular and Jaw pain, Ear pain, Migraine and other problems related to TMJ Disorders.
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Since the teeth, chewing muscles and
temporomandibular joints all can be involved in a TMJ disorder, treatments vary.
We will decide what type of treatment is needed for your particular problem.
Often, treatment will involve a series of phases. This step-by-step plan is in
your best interest because only minor corrective treatment may be needed. If
pain and other symptoms persist, a more involved treatment, such as changing the
way your teeth fit together, or even surgery, may be needed. However, surgery is
recommended only when a precise cause of the disorder has been pinpointed and
usually should not be undertaken until more conservative treatments of the
disorder have been tried first.
Some common methods of treating
TMJ disorders are listed below:
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Elimination of Spasms and
Pain - This can be done by applying moist heat to the face, using
prescribed muscle relaxants or other medications, massaging the muscles, and
eating soft, non-chewy foods. These are especially helpful for acutely painful
flares. Bite plates or occlusal (bite) splints can also be made. This
treatment helps to eliminate the harmful effects of clenching or grinding the
teeth. Bite guards/splints are more helpful over time to prevent acute flares.
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Counseling or
Biofeedback/Relaxation Training - Many times counseling is used along with
other forms of treatment. If emotional stress is the factor that causes
clenching or grinding of the teeth, that stress should be reduced or
eliminated. Biofeedback, a relaxation technique that teaches people to control
tension throughout various parts of the body with the aid of an electronic
monitoring device, can also be helpful in reducing muscle tension in the jaw.
Such mind/body techniques as the Alexander Method can be helpful in muscle
re-education.
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Correcting the Way the Teeth
Fit Together - If your bite is incorrect or uneven, it can be adjusted by
selective grinding of the teeth. Orthodontic appliances (braces) and other
dental procedures may also be used to reduce problems caused by improperly
aligned teeth.
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Surgery - If muscle
spasms have occurred for long periods, the TMJ itself may become injured or
arthritic. In addition the bones and soft tissues of the TMJ may slip out of
normal position because of trauma such as a blow to the head, or some other
cause. Occasionally, in cases such as these, surgery may be needed to correct
the TMJ problem.
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