Where we can help relieve the life-destroying pain of Temporomandibular Disorder – TMD
Treatment for TMD depends on the severity and specific cause of the condition. In many cases, lifestyle changes and physical therapy can be effective in managing TMD symptoms. For example, reducing stress, meditation, avoiding chewy or hard foods, and practicing good posture can help to alleviate pain and discomfort. Physical therapy may also be used to improve jaw joint and muscle function, as well as to reduce pain and improve range of motion.
In addition to lifestyle changes and physical therapy, splint therapy is also an important treatment for TMD in many cases. Splint therapy involves wearing a custom-made splint over the teeth to help align the jaw and reduce pain and discomfort. The splint works by redistributing the forces acting on the jaw joint and reducing the stress on the muscles that control jaw movement.
The splint can also reposition the lower jaw to correct disturbances in the relationships of the bones and the disc within the joints.
In only the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. Surgical options for TMD can include joint replacement, joint reconstruction, or muscle or ligament repair. The specific surgical procedure recommended will depend on the individual case and the underlying cause of the TMD.
Mountains TMJ and Dental Sleep Medicine, and Dr Baret have never yet had to refer a patient for TMJ Surgery, in over four decades of successfully treating Temporomandibular Disorders.
In conclusion, TMD is a common condition that affects the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Improper jaw development, caused by mouth breathing with open mouth posture and improper tongue posture, is an important cause of TMD and can lead to a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, muscle pain, and limited jaw movement. Treatment for TMD may include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, splint therapy, or in the most severe cases, surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD, it is important to seek the best advice from experienced dentists to determine the best course of action. With the right treatment, it is possible to manage TMD and reduce pain and discomfort, allowing you to enjoy a higher quality of life. We find that in most cased we can achieve an actual cure for TMD, rather than simply reduction of symptoms.
It is worth noting that proper oral habits such as nasal breathing, proper tongue posture and the right approach to orthodontic treatment, where appropriate, can also play a role in preventing improper jaw development and TMD. By maintaining proper oral habits, individuals can reduce their risk of developing TMD and other oral health problems.