Common TMJ Treatments
You know that stress is bad for you. You may even have a general idea as to why. The truth is that stress can cause all sorts of trouble. In some people, it can increase muscle tension, especially in the jaw region. This tightening can lead to bruxism, which is just one thing that can lead to TMJ or temporomandibular jaw disorder. Fortunately, TMJ can be treated with orthodontic treatments.
A Mouth Guard
If you’ve suffered from bruxism, you may already be using a mouth guard at night. Switching to one used to treat TMJ may not require too much adjustment on your part then. TMJ mouth guards act as a cushion for your jaw and teeth. They are designed to relieve the pressure you feel as a result of TMJ. Mouth guards should be molded to fit you properly, comfortable to wear, and easy to keep clean.
A Splint
Sometimes a mouth guard worn at night may not be quite enough to treat TMJ. In this case, it may be necessary to wear a splint during the day. These splints can be quite subtle in appearance. They often look like the clear aligners used for Invisalign treatments. While the splint is removable, be sure to wear it in accordance with Dr. Maccaro’s instructions to properly treat your TMJ. When used correctly, a splint should improve jaw function and relieve pain, allowing the jaw to work smoothly.
Braces
If TMJ is caused by a poorly aligned bite, realigning it using braces may be the best treatment option. By moving the teeth and jaw into the correct space and alignment, pain and pressure on the temporomandibular joint may be relieved. Depending on the nature and severity of the poor alignment, it may be possible to see results with clear aligners. Otherwise, it may be better to go with traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or lingual braces. Dr. Maccaro can help you determine which option will provide the best treatment for you.
TMJ can be incredibly painful and difficult to live with. Fortunately, there are common treatments that can help you overcome the disorder such as a mouth guard, a splint, or even braces. If you’re having trouble with TMJ, come see Dr. Maccaro to get the treatment you need. You’ll soon get back to living your life free of TMJ trouble.
The i-CAT FLX Cone Beam 3D Dental Imaging System is used by Maccaro Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry as a part of TMJ treatment and so much more. Click here to learn about this innovative imaging system today!
