TMJ Treatment in Jackson MS

Find Relief from TMJ Pain with Expert Treatment

The temporomandibular joint acts like a hinge that connects the temporal bones of the skull to the jaw. This hinge allows you to move your jaw up and down or even side to side. This is the joint that allows you to talk usually and chew your food.

Problems affecting the jaw are termed Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) or Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD). 

Consult An Expert TMJ Specialist in Jackson MS

It is believed that injuries to the muscles located in the neck and the head could lead to TMD. There are other things too that are believed to result in this condition:

• Increased pressure on the joint because of grinding of teeth
• Movement of the cushion between the joint’s ball and socket
• Arthritis in the affected area
• Stress which can lead to the tightening of facial and jaw muscles

TMJ Treatment Options in Jackson

Because other health problems can cause the same symptoms as that of TMD, we are very careful when making our diagnosis. We ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam of the affected area. We will be checking the joints for signs of tenderness. We will also listen for sounds when you open and close your mouth.

Your bite will also be checked to make sure that there is nothing wrong with it and that your jaw will not lock. We may have to take X-rays too of the affected area so we can rule out other possibilities.

Treatment for TMD can fall under three categories:

1. Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers can help manage the pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders. For cases triggered by stress, we may also prescribe anti-anxiety medications or recommend stress management techniques.
2. Splints: A custom-made mouthguard can prevent teeth grinding and reduce the pressure on the TMJ, allowing the joint to heal. These are often worn at night to prevent clenching during sleep.
3. Dental Work: For some patients, misaligned teeth or an improper bite may contribute to TMJ pain. In such cases, dental treatments like orthodontics, crowns, or bite adjustments can correct the issue.

There are certain medications that we prescribe that will help to deal with the symptoms of TMD. We can give you medicine to deal with the pain and the swelling. There are also some medicines that can help to relax the muscles that might be affected by the condition. Medications that can lower stress can also help. A splint can help so that your lower and upper teeth don’t touch and that would lessen the effect of grinding. We might also recommend that you undergo some dental work to correct a bite problem which could be the cause of the TMD.

See also: Dental Implants

You can be sure that we will inform you about all your options while you are undergoing treatment with our TMJ specialist in Jackson MS.

Common Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ or TMD can have several symptoms. You might feel some or all of these:

• Pain in the face, jaw, neck, and around your ear when you open your mouth
• You cannot open your mouth fully
• Jaws that get locked
• Popping or clicking sound when you open your mouth
• Problems when chewing
• A tired feeling in the face
• Swelling on the side of the face
• Toothaches and aches can also be signs that you are suffering from TMD. Your hearing might also be affected by this condition. However, seek professional help for abscess treatment if there is one.

Several risk factors have been identified that make an individual more susceptible to TMJ disorders. These risk factors include:

• Gender:
  Research has shown that women account for 90 percent of those who suffer from and seek treatment for TMJ problems.

• Age:
  Individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 have been found most likely to develop TMJD.

• Structural deformity:
  There is a strong indication that deformities in the facial bones of the jaw and lower facial region can adversely affect the way the jaw works.

• Injury:
  Injury or trauma to the jaw area can lead to long-term TMJD. It may develop as a result of the dislocation of the jaw joint, movement of the disc, or weakened jaw muscles.

• Stress:
  Stress is a very common contributing factor in many other health conditions, not just TMJD.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Adjustments for TMJ Pain Relief

Tips to Manage TMJ Pain at Home

In addition to professional treatments, there are several self-care techniques and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate TMJ pain and prevent further damage:

• Jaw exercises: Simple exercises that involve gently stretching and strengthening the jaw muscles can improve joint mobility and reduce discomfort.
• Avoid hard or chewy foods: Eating soft foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed vegetables can reduce strain on your jaw, allowing it to heal. Avoid chewing gum, tough meats, or anything that requires excessive chewing.
• Apply heat or cold packs: Using a warm compress or ice pack on the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve muscle tension.
• Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress and prevent jaw clenching.
• Proper posture: Maintaining good posture while sitting and standing can reduce the tension on your neck, shoulders, and jaw.

TMJ and its Impact on Your Overall Health

Why Treating TMJ Disorders is Crucial for Your Well-Being

While TMJ disorders primarily affect the jaw joint, they can have far-reaching effects on your overall health. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to:

• Chronic pain: TMJ issues often result in persistent pain that radiates to the neck, shoulders, and even the back. This can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life.
• Sleep disturbances: Patients with TMJ disorders may experience bruxism (teeth grinding) at night, which can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue or insomnia.
• Mental health issues: Chronic pain and discomfort from TMJ can contribute to anxiety, stress, and depression, especially if the condition goes untreated for an extended period.
• Dental problems: Over time, grinding and clenching caused by TMJ disorders can wear down your teeth, leading to cavities, tooth fractures, or even tooth loss.

Seeking timely treatment for TMJ disorders is essential not only for relieving pain but also for protecting your overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I contact a medical professional?

• You can contact a medical professional if a dentist can’t figure it out.

Will treatment be covered by insurance?

• You will need to check with your insurance company if TMJ Treatment is covered.

How long will it take to get better?

• Each case of TMJ Treatment varies and recovery period for each patient differs.

How often would I need to be seen?

• It varies, depending on the case.

Will I need TMJ Surgery?

• TMJ surgeries depend on the severity of the case.

Schedule Your TMJ Consultation Today!

If you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms above, have yourself checked as soon as possible to avoid more problems. Contact us today for TMJ specialist in Jackson MS!

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