TMJ Non-Surgical Treatment
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is the general term used to describe the pain and/or dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its associated structures. Over 5% of the population is affected by TMD; it is found more commonly in women. The cause of TMD may include clenching/grinding, changes in someone’s bite, trauma, joint overload, arthritis and psychological factors.
The critical step in treating Temporomandibular Disorders is to identify the cause. The most common causes of TMD are muscular disorders, which are referred to as myofascial pain and dysfunction. These disorders are managed non-surgically with a variety of reversible treatment methods. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important.
TMD Signs & Symptoms:
- Clicking and popping of the jaw
- Difficulty or painful opening and closing of the jaw
- Locking of the jaw
- Clenching and grinding when stressed
- Frequent headaches and neck pain
- Stiff, sore muscles of the jaw
- Teeth that are no longer touching or come together differently
- Aching pain around the ear
- Dr. Arango believes in non-surgical treatment when at all possible and minimally invasive surgery only when indicated. No single treatment can solve TMD completely and treatment takes time to become effective.
- Dr. Arango specializes in all treatment modalities of TMD and will work closely with your medical and dental providers. Call 214-269-1244 to schedule a consultation.
Insurance Coverage for TMJ:
Dr. Arango is an in network physician with most medical insurance companies. He will work with all insurance providers except Medicare/Medicaid. Dr. Arango and is staff will work diligently to assure the surgery is covered by your medical insurance company.
Non-surgical Treatments:
Dr. Arango’s primary goal in the treatment of TMD is to alleviate pain and/or jaw dysfunction. TMD can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, Dr. Arango will provide you with all the different options to alleviate your pain.
Non-surgical TMJ Treatments:
- Diet: a soft diet is a critical component in the management of TMD in order to allow the jaw to rest, it can help prevent overloading the joint and decrease muscular activity.
- Pharmacotherapy: medications play an important role in the non-surgical management of TMD. The medications include anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants and antidepressants
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises have been shown to be successful as adjunctive therapy by increasing range of motion.
- Splint Therapy: Occlusal splints are considered to be a part of conservative treatment in managing TMD and are very effective with patients that clench/grind.
- Occlusal adjustment: malocclusion may play a role in developing or worsening symptoms of TMD. Occlusal modifications with braces or restorations may improve symptoms only when indicated.
- Botox injections: injections into the muscles of the head and neck can provide significant relief to patients that clench/grind their teeth.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment to discuss any of your TMJ questions – 214-269-1244.
Please call our oral surgery office in Dallas at 214-269-1244 to make an appointment.
