TMJ Treatment in Tulsa, OK

What to Know About TMJ Treatment

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your skull to your jawbone and acts similar to a sliding hinge. There are two joints, one on each side of the jaw. TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joints and cause pain in the jaw. TMJ treatment can provide the relief you need from this painful affliction.

TMJ Treatment: Causes of TMJ

It is hard to know what causes TMJ disorder. It could be a number of factors, like injury, genetics, or arthritis. Jaw pain may also be a result of teeth grinding. There are some people who habitually grind their teeth and have never experienced TMJ disorders.

The pain due to a TMJ disorder is usually temporary and can be managed through self-care and treatments. If no treatment options work, surgery is considered as a last resort.

TMJ Treatment: Symptoms of TMJ

If your jaw is experiencing pain or tenderness, this can be a sign that you are suffering from TMJ disorders. Pain in the temporomandibular joints may be another signal. Aching pain around the ear may also point to a TMJ disorder. If you have difficulty chewing or experience pain when chewing, it may be a symptom.

TMJ Treatment: Diagnosis of TMJ

To get a diagnosis, Dr. Conrad C. Casler, Jr. D.D.S., will examine your jaw. During the examination, he will listen to your jaw as it opens and closes. He will view your jaw's range of motion. Dr. Casler will also identify the sites in your jaw that are causing you pain.

If he notices a problem, he will send you for a dental X-ray of your jaw and teeth. You may also have to go for a CT scan as it will give detailed images of the affected area. TMJ arthroscopy can also be used to diagnose a TMJ disorder. This is where a small thin tube and a camera are inserted into the joint space to look at the area.

TMJ Treatment: Procedure

When it comes to pain relief, over-the-counter medications are not strong enough to be used as treatment for TMJ. You may have to get a prescription for stronger pain relievers, like prescription-strength ibuprofen.

Tricyclic antidepressants, in low doses, can help with pain and bruxism control. Muscle relaxants can be used as a treatment for TMJ because they can help with the pain associated with muscle spasms caused by TMJ disorders.

Mouthguards, both soft and firm, can help with pain issues. You can also do physical therapy exercises to strengthen jaw muscles. Heat and ice therapy may also help with discomfort and can serve you when you need TMJ treatment near me.

Seek TMJ Treatment Near Me

Although there is still a lot of information that needs to be known about TMJ disorder, you do not have to live in discomfort. If you are looking for a treatment, you should contact Casler Dental Group. Call us today at 918-477-7677 to schedule an appointment.