TMJ or TMJD is a common discussion and research topic at our office. Luckily for our patients, Dr. Alex is one of the best and has extensive knowledge of what TMJ is, how you can treat it and how it can be prevented. Additionally, she is consistently attending workshops and conferences to further her knowledge of how to treat those suffering from TMJ disorder
So what exactly is TMJD?
- Your temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects your lower and upper jaw; TMJ disorder is a pain in the temporomandibular joint and the muscles surrounding the joint.
- The temporomandibular joint is used for everyday functions such as chewing, speaking, swallowing, yawning and even breathing- so when there is pain in the joint, patients are constantly and consistently suffering, this is what we refer to as TMJ or TMJD.
- Typically, TMJ occurs when the jaw is misaligned which leads to strain and discomfort. Misalignment can be genetic or the result of a jaw injury or trauma. Regardless of your situation, we want to help find the best possible pain management for your TMJ and a TMJ treatment.
- Long term TMJ could result in chronic pain and/or arthritis
All of Dr. Alex’s TMJ treatments are custom to her patients and the therapy they require. We are invested in finding a TMJ pain management program and TMJ treatment for every client who walks through our door. We take records that include joint x-rays, photos, K-7 evaluation with EMG measurement and jaw tracking. After reviewing the records, we will develop a treatment plan suited for your needs. The options that we primarily use to treat TMJD and that we see as most effective are orthotic appliances, crowns and/or braces. Learn more about each of these treatment options below:
Orthotic Appliances:
An orthotic appliance works as a semi-permanent solution to treating the pain and discomfort in your jaw. Orthotics are designed to adjust the lower jaw into its proper neuromuscular position, alleviating the pain caused by the TMJD symptoms. Orthotics are considered “semi-permanent” as they can be removed at the patient’s convenience but can also be worn for up to 24hrs a day.
Crowns:
Crowns are a great solution for treating TMJ once the pain is eliminated as they can keep your teeth in a pain-free position permanently. Patients who have a history of grinding their teeth are excellent candidates for crowns as the crown can help restore tooth structure, all while offering you a beautiful new smile!
Braces:
Our approach to orthodontics and braces is a little different than typical pre-conceived notions. Our braces treat how the jaw should function as opposed to just treating how the teeth look. The braces treatment we offer will remodel your jaw and adjust your teeth, offering a permanent and effective treatment for your TMJ symptoms.
