Treatment for TMJ/TMD
In What are TMJ/TMD Disorders? (Part IV), we looked at the home remedies to treat temporomandibular joint disorders. Theses remedies are as follows: OTC Medications, Hot/Cold Packs, Diet Modification and Movement & Habits. In this article, we will look at the traditional treatments dentists prescribe for TMJ/TMD.
* Medications
Dentists can prescribe stronger doses of NSAIDS than that available over-the-counter to treat pain and swelling. A muscle relaxant can be prescribed to assist in relaxation of the jaw to help with grinding and clenching of teeth. An anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed to help relieve stress and ease TMJ/TMD.
* Splint/Night Guard
A splint/night guard can be prescribed to fit over the upper and lower teeth and prevent them from touching. This helps to alleviate clenching and grinding, as well as correcting the bite. A night guard is worn at night while a splint is worn throughout the entire day.
* Dental Treatment
The dentist can perform dental work such as replacing missing teeth or use crowns, bridges and braces to correct the bite and to balance the surfaces of the teeth to redistribute forces more evenly.