TMJ Treatments From A General Dentist

Tmj Dentist Farmington, NM

TMJ disorders are known to be one of the most grueling, as they induce a lot of discomfort and difficulty eating. However, modern-day technology has allowed for a wide range of options when it comes to treatment plans. Working with a general dentist is typically the first step. As surprising as it may be, general dentists are actually the first point of contact for diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders.  

Treatment for TMJ disorders

Outlined below are a few ways that general dentists treat TMJ disorders. Of course, the treatment plan will vary from patient to patient; however, the following information offers general guidelines to TMJ sufferers.

Mild cases of TMJ disorders

General dentists will typically treat mild cases of TMJ disorder via a few different avenues, based on the patient's symptoms. Mild cases tend to induce symptoms such as difficulty eating or speaking, jaw clicking and slight discomfort. Outlined below are a few treatment options that a general dentist may suggest and/or prescribe.

  • Hot and cold therapy
  • Low doses of muscle relaxers
  • Oral splints
  • Jaw exercises
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications

In most scenarios, the dentist may recommend one of the treatment options above; however, a lot of the time, it is trial and error. Multiple treatments may need to be done together in order to get the most effective results. For example, some patients may require a muscle relaxer and oral splint at the same time. 

Moderate cases of TMJ disorders

TMJ disorders that cause more moderate symptoms may require an in-depth treatment plan. Moderate cases present themselves via chronic pain, jaw locking, teeth grinding and headaches. The following treatment options would be considered in conjunction with or following the ones listed under the mild category. 

  • Higher doses of muscle relaxers
  • Oral physical therapy 
  • Custom-made night guards to prevent teeth grinding
  • Pain medications 
  • Acupuncture

A lot of TMJ disorder sufferers experience moderate to severe symptoms, which can be detrimental to oral health and overall comfort. When symptoms become severe, serious treatment may have to be explored. 

Severe cases of TMJ disorders

General dentists can provide a number of treatments to sufferers of TMJ disorders, with the most severe options being rarer. Outlined below are some of the most severe treatment options for TMJ disorders.

  • Open-joint surgery
  • Facial injections
  • TMJ arthroscopy
  • Modified condylotomy 

Of course, general dentists will start with mild to moderate treatments; however, individuals who suffer from chronic TMJ disorder may require more in-depth procedures in order to eliminate the pain and dysfunction that comes with the disorder. 

Find out more from a general dentist

Want further information on treating TMJ disorders? Talking with a general dentist is the best place to start. Any questions or concerns can be addressed, and an evaluation can be done in order to determine the most appropriate course of action. Reach out today to find out more about TMJ disorder treatment or to get scheduled for a consultation appointment with the dentist. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.myfarmingtondentist.com or call Farmington Family Dentistry at (505) 295-4075 for an appointment in our Farmington office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: TMJ Dentist in Farmington, NM.

Recent Posts

Why You Should Remove Clear Aligners While Eating

Clear aligners are made for the sole purpose of aligning your teeth. The aligners are fragile and can break or crack under intense pressure. This renders them ineffective. Here is why you should remove aligners while eating.Clear aligners are plastic in nature. These are made from a thermoplastic material that cures into hard plastic. This…

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

With the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, it is easy to have a white, bright smile. Everybody wants to have sparkling teeth, but it is difficult to achieve it without professional help. That is why teeth-whitening treatments are everywhere. If you are thinking about getting a cosmetic dentistry treatment to treat your stained teeth, here…

A Smile Makeover Can Improve Your Self-Esteem

A smile makeover often leads to increased self-esteem and confidence. Having a radiant, healthy smile also gives you increased success during professional and personal interactions. People with great smiles are often perceived as attractive and successful, while those with unsightly smiles are sometimes viewed as unclean and unsuccessful. A smile makeover is a combination of…

Recovering From Getting Dental Implants

Choosing dental implants is a great idea if you are looking into your tooth-replacement options because you are missing one or more of your teeth. This option is one that offers benefits that other replacement options do not, which is why so many patients are choosing implants to replace their missing teeth. Other replacement options…

Recent Posts

Why You Should Remove Clear Aligners While Eating

Why You Should Remove Clear Aligners While Eating

Clear aligners are made for the sole purpose of aligning your teeth. The aligners are fragile and can break or crack under intense pressure. This renders them ineffective. Here is why you should remove aligners while eating.Clear aligners are plastic in nature. These are made from a thermoplastic material that cures into hard plastic. This…

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

With the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, it is easy to have a white, bright smile. Everybody wants to have sparkling teeth, but it is difficult to achieve it without professional help. That is why teeth-whitening treatments are everywhere. If you are thinking about getting a cosmetic dentistry treatment to treat your stained teeth, here…