TMJ

General Information About TMJ Problems At Dr. Pal’s Dental Hospital, we provide specialized care for patients suffering from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and plays a crucial role in chewing, speaking, and other jaw movements. TMJ problems can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty in jaw function, requiring timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

Facts About TMJ Problems

  • TMJ disorders can result from stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injuries, arthritis, or misalignment.
  • Symptoms may include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, ear pain, and difficulty chewing.
  • Non-surgical treatments such as lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and oral appliances are effective for most cases.
  • Severe cases may require advanced treatments such as injections or surgical intervention.
  • Proper jaw exercises and relaxation techniques help in managing TMJ discomfort.

Before the Procedure:

  • A comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, X-rays, or MRI scans, is conducted to diagnose TMJ disorders.
  • The dentist reviews medical history and discusses symptoms to determine the best treatment plan.
  • Patients may be advised to make lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding hard foods.
  • If necessary, a custom night guard or splint may be recommended to prevent teeth grinding.

Procedure Steps:

  1. Conservative Management: Initial treatments include jaw exercises, medication, and stress management.
  2. Oral Appliances: A custom-made splint or night guard is provided to prevent teeth grinding and jaw strain.
  3. Physical Therapy: Exercises and massages are recommended to strengthen jaw muscles and improve function.
  4. Medications (if needed): Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.
  5. Injections (if required): Corticosteroid or Botox injections may be used to relieve muscle tension.
  6. Surgical Treatment (in severe cases): Arthrocentesis, TMJ arthroscopy, or open-joint surgery may be considered if other treatments are ineffective.

Post-Treatment Care:

  • Follow the recommended jaw exercises and avoid excessive jaw movements.
  • Use hot or cold compresses to relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Maintain a soft diet to reduce strain on the jaw.
  • Continue using prescribed oral appliances as directed by the dentist.
  • Attend follow-up appointments to monitor TMJ health and progress.

At Dr. Pal’s Dental Hospital, we offer effective solutions for TMJ problems to restore comfort and improve jaw function. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get relief from TMJ discomfort!