TMJ Treatment

TMJ Treatment in Hemet, CA

Dentists are not only skilled at treating the teeth and gums but also possess knowledge about the jaw. The joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the skull is the TMJ (temporomandibular joint). This joint can be the cause of intense pain and several disorders in patients, resulting in difficulty eating, speaking, and otherwise opening the mouth. When experiencing one of these problems, it’s important to seek out TMJ treatment in Hemet, CA, before the condition worsens. At our Hemet dental office, Glenn C. DelaRoca DDS, we have a TMJ specialist near you.

How Are TMJ Disorders Treated?

The exact treatment for a disorder will vary based on the patient and what kind of condition the joint is in. Patients might require medication, therapy, or even surgery to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation and return to normal activities.

Medication

Medication prescribed by a dentist is not intended to be a long-term solution and is instead meant to reduce symptoms while the patient undergoes another form of treatment. Some of the potential medications a patient might need include:

  • Muscle relaxants to control spasms
  • Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce discomfort and ease oral function
  • Tricyclic antidepressants to stop bruxism and treat insomnia in patients who struggle with regular pain relievers
  • Corticosteroids injected into the joint to relieve muscle tension

Therapy

Sometimes patients experience a TMJ disorder because they grind or clench their teeth during the day or while asleep. When this occurs, the individual needs to be coached on new habits designed to reduce the strain and pressure on the joint.

Some of the sample therapies prescribed by a dentist include:

  • Counseling to unlearn behaviors like teeth grinding, clenching, nail-biting, etc.
  • The use of a mouthguard or oral appliance at night to restrict unwanted behaviors
  • Physical therapy to strengthen the jaw muscles and reduce inflammation

Surgery

If medication and therapy do not work for a patient, or if the disorder is severe or due to overall jaw structure, then the dentist might recommend surgery with a maxillofacial surgeon skilled in handling the jaw. Surgery can focus on a broad range of conditions, but most commonly is done to remove excess fluid, rebuild the joint, or repair surrounding muscle.

If you frequently experience TMJ pain, schedule a consultation at Glenn C. DelaRoca DDS today. You can also contact us if you need general dentistry in Hemet, CA. If you reside in East Hemet, San Jacinto, Egan, Ramona Bowl, and Lake Crest Estates we can also cater to you.

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