TMJ facts
Does TMJ require surgery to fix?
For most people, the discomfort and pain associated with the TMJ disorder are temporary, which means it can be treated without undergoing surgery. In some special and rare cases, surgery is performed as a last resort if the pain persists and non-invasive methods do not work.What are the symptoms of TMJ?
The symptoms of TMJ disorder include:- Pain while chewing food
- A locking of joints, which makes it difficult to open your mouth
- Pain in and around your ear
- Pain in your jaw
- Pain in your temporomandibular joints
Treatment of TMJ disorder
The pain associated with TMJ is temporary in most cases, which means your symptoms may go away without treatment. However, if symptoms like jaw discomfort, ear pain, or dizziness continue, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Many people wonder, does TMJ cause vertigo? Yes, TMJ issues can sometimes lead to balance problems and vertigo due to the joint's proximity to the inner ear. If these symptoms persist, you should see your dentist for TMJ treatment in Buford to explore relief options tailored to your needs.
Medication
For most cases, dentists and doctors recommend pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to treat the pain. If the over-the-counter medication is not strong enough to manage the pain, your dentist will prescribe something stronger to deal with the pain. Your dentist might also prescribe amitriptyline, which is used primarily to treat depression but also works as an effective painkiller. Dentists have also had a lot of success using muscle relaxants to treat the pain associated with TMJ disorder.Therapy
If you do not want to take drugs for the pain, therapy is another option that can offer relief. Your dentist may recommend using oral splints or mouth guards to help manage discomfort and reduce strain on the jaw. Physical therapy treatments, such as applying heat and ice to the affected area, have also proven successful in alleviating pain. Some people wonder, does exercise cause TMJ? While most exercises don’t trigger TMJ issues, high-impact activities or exercises that strain the jaw area may contribute to discomfort in some cases.
Counseling is used as a way to help you understand what triggers the pain and how to avoid it. Bad habits like biting your fingernails and grinding your teeth are examples of those factors.