TMJ Disorder Treatment

TMJ Disorder Treatment in North Miami Beach, FL

Ease Your Jaw Pain with Dr. Abbo

If you suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), you may be wondering what treatment will work best for you. For temporomandibular disorders, there are various treatment options to consider, both non-surgical and surgical. To find the best treatment for you, contact our North Miami Beach, FL dentist today by calling (305) 945-0909 to schedule a TMJ consultation. 

Understanding TMDA woman has a stunningly bright smile after professional teeth whitening.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a common condition that affects the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. It can cause various symptoms, including pain, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty opening your mouth, and headaches. While the exact causes of TMD are often unclear, it can be related to factors such as stress, injury, teeth grinding, and arthritis.

Conservative Treatments to TMD Care

  • Pain Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help manage symptoms.
  • Muscle Relaxants: These medications can reduce muscle tension in the jaw.
  • Splints or Night Guards: Custom-made mouthguards can help prevent teeth grinding and reduce stress on the jaw joint.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
  • Hot and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help relieve discomfort.

Holistic Approaches to TMD Pain

  • Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing.  
  • Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors can manipulate the spine to improve alignment and reduce tension in the jaw muscles.
  • Massage Therapy: Massaging the jaw and neck muscles can help alleviate pain and tension.
  • Stress Management: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can reduce stress, which can contribute to TMD symptoms.
  • Dietary Changes: Certain foods, such as those that are hard to chew or require excessive jaw movement, can exacerbate TMD symptoms. Avoiding these foods and eating a balanced diet can help.

Surgical Treatments for TMJ SymptomsA man points to his restorative dentistry solutions.

In severe cases of TMD, surgery for pain relief may be necessary. This could involve:

  • Arthrocentesis: A procedure to flush out the joint and remove any debris.
  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera to diagnose and treat joint problems.
  • Open Joint Surgery: A more invasive procedure that may be necessary for severe joint damage.
  • Total Joint Replacement: In rare cases, the entire joint may need to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggers TMJ flare-ups?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) flare-ups can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can contribute to muscle tension and jaw clenching.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth can put excessive strain on the TMJ.
  • Poor Posture: Poor posture can misalign the jaw and contribute to TMJ pain.
  • Injury: A traumatic injury to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ.
  • Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
  • Dental Issues: Bite problems, misaligned teeth, or dental procedures can contribute to TMJ pain.

What are the risks of TMD surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, TMD surgery carries some risks. These may include:

  • Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery.
  • Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
  • Nerve Damage: Nerves near the TMJ on the upper and lower teeth could be accidentally damaged during surgery.
  • Tissue Damage: Surrounding tissues, such as muscles or blood vessels, could be injured.

How can I prepare for TMD surgery?

Preparation for TMD surgery will vary depending on the specific procedure. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions, which may include:

  • Pre-operative Tests: You may need to undergo blood tests, X-rays, or other diagnostic tests.
  • Medication: You may be advised to stop or adjust certain medications before surgery.
  • Fasting: You will likely need to fast for a certain period before surgery.
  • Arrangements: Arrange transportation to and from the hospital, and plan for time off work or other commitments for recovery.
  • Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon any questions you may have about the jaw joints procedure and recovery process.

Start your Journey to a Life Free of Temporomandibular Disorder Pain

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD and have not found relief, it may be time to consider your treatment options. Don’t let TMJ disorders symptoms continue to impact your daily life — take action and explore your TMJ treatment options today.

If you want relief from constant jaw pain and other debilitating symptoms, call our North Miami Beach office at (305) 945-0909 to schedule a temporomandibular joints consultation with Dr. Abbo. You can also reach out through our website, where you’ll be put in contact with a helpful staff member.