Is It Worthwhile to Get TMJ Treatment?

Are you waking up with frequent headaches? Do you struggle to eat due to lock jaw? Is chewing painful? You might have TMJ disorder (TMD). This is when your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) isn’t functioning properly. TMJ treatment is available to reduce discomfort associated with TMD, but is it actually worth it? Here’s what you should know about TMJ treatment and its benefits.

How Does TMJ Treatment Work?

There are various types of TMJ treatment that cater to various needs. Here are two of the most common treatment options and what they consist of.

• Occlusal Adjustments: One common source of TMJ disorder is a unbalanced resting bite that creates strain on other areas of the mouth, like the TMJs. An occlusal adjustment considers of your dentist performing a bite adjustment to reduce this uneven pressure.
• Occlusal Splints: This is a very common treatment for TMJ disorder. It is especially useful for those whose cases are associated with chronic teeth clenching or grinding. For this, your dentist designs a custom appliance to hold your jaw in a steady, comfortable, and relaxed position. With prolonged use, it can improve your jaw’s natural positioning, reducing discomfort.

What Are the Benefits of TMJ Treatment?

Here are just some of the many benefits that patients experience from TMJ treatment.

• Improved Jaw Function: Personalized TMJ treatment can improve jaw function and help patients to regain normal movement of their jaw joints. By addressing the underlying cause of the disorder, you can do things that you couldn’t before treatment.
• Alleviation of Pain: By undergoing professional TMJ treatment, many people experience significant relief from TMD pain and discomfort – one of the most common symptoms of TMD.
• Reduced Risk of Dental Issues: Treating TMD can help to prevent further damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw joints. When left untreated, it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or even permanent damage to the jaw.
• Better Sleep: TMD can cause sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling or staying asleep, snoring, or exacerbating sleep apnea. By treating TMD, you can end this vicious cycle, reducing the frequency of these disturbances.
• Improve Your Quality of Life: It is no secret that chronic pain can take a toll on your mental health, worsening anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties.

Don’t let TMD reduce your quality of life! If you have symptoms, talk to your dentist. There are treatment options available to help you get the relief you need to thrive!

About the Author

Dr. Jacob Milner earned his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. Since then, he has remained committed to advanced training in many areas of dentistry. To learn more about TMJ treatment or to schedule an appointment at his office in Owing Mills, visit his website or call (410) 390-0277.