TMJ Treatment

Consider temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) treatment if you experience frequent headaches, facial pain, and/or difficulty biting and chewing. TMKJ treatment can relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve your quality of life. At SolidSMILES Dental in Lewisville, Texas, general dentist Hiral Patel, DDS, uses various TMJ treatments to manage temporomandibular joint disorder. Depending on your needs, she could recommend an oral splint, physical therapy, or surgery. Call SolidSMILES Dental to schedule TMJ treatment, or book your appointment online today. 

What is TMJ treatment?

TMJ treatment refers to various procedures for managing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

TMJ causes inflammation of the temporomandibular joints –– two hinge-like pieces of tissue that connect the lower jaw to the skull. 

These joints assist with daily activities, including biting, chewing, and speaking, but they undergo regular wear and tear. This wear-and-tear can trigger a variety of uncomfortable symptoms and affect your quality of life.

Who should consider TMJ treatment?

Consider TMJ treatment at SolidSMILES Dental if you have symptoms like:

• Pain in or around your ears
• Aching facial pain
• Frequent headaches
• Pain or tenderness in your jaw
• Difficulty biting and chewing

As TMJ worsens, you might experience popping, clicking, or crunching noises when you open or close your mouth.

How does a dentist diagnose TMJ?

Dr. Patel reviews your dental records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, what they feel like, and if they’re worse at specific times, like when you eat.

Next, she completes an oral exam. Specifically, Dr. Patel observes your jaw’s range of motion, listens to your jaw while you open and close your mouth, and gently presses on your jaw to identify sensitive places. She also orders dental X-rays to get a closer look at your temporomandibular joints and check for signs of damage.

What does TMJ treatment involve?

AT SolidSMILES Dental, Dr. Patel treats TMJ using a conservative and integrative approach. She could suggest:

• Taking over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medication
• Prescription muscle relaxants
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Wearing an oral splint to prevent teeth grinding and/or jaw clenching
• Physical therapy to strengthen your jaw muscles
• Ice and heat therapy

Most people with TMJ benefit from a combination of these treatments. Dr. Patel monitors your symptoms at regular checkups and adjusts your care plan when needed.

If your symptoms continue or worsen, you might benefit from a more invasive procedure, like corticosteroid or Botox injections. Corticosteroids relieve inflammation and pain, while Botox injections help your jaw muscles relax.

Call SoldSMILES Dental to schedule TMJ treatment or book your appointment online today.