Treatment for TMJ/TMD
In What are TMJ/TMD Disorders? (Part V), we looked at the traditional treatments for TMJ/TMD including medications, splint/night guard and dental treatment. In this article, we will look at other traditional treatments for TMJ/TMD if the initial treatments do not work.
* Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a therapy that uses low voltage electrical currents to target the jaw and facial muscles. It helps to relax the muscles in order to provide pain relief. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation treatment can either be performed in the dentist office or at home.
* Ultrasound
Ultrasound helps to deliver deep heat to the joint to relieve soreness and improve mobility.
* Trigger-point injections
Anesthensia is injected into specific points within tender muscles to provide pain relief.
* Radio wave therapy
Radio waves help to stimulate the joint to relief pain and enhance blood flow.
* Low-level laser therapy
Low-level laser therapy reduces pain and inflammation and helps the neck to move more freely and relaxes the muscles to open the mouth wider.