Hope for Healing from TMJ Pain
For those suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain in the Franklinville, NJ area, relief may be within reach. With a patient-centered approach, our Franklinville, NJ, dentist aims to thoroughly evaluate each individual’s condition, provide customized treatment plans, and partner with patients on their road to recovery. By working collaboratively with their dentist, patients can gain hope and start reclaiming their health.
What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ) refer to conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints that connect the jawbone to the skull, as well as the muscles involved in jaw movement. TMJ disorders can cause pain and dysfunction in these joints and muscles, impacting a person’s ability to chew, speak, and open their mouth normally.
What Causes TMJ?
The specific causes of TMJ disorders are often complex and not fully understood but may involve injury, arthritis, grinding or clenching of teeth, and more. When experiencing symptoms like jaw pain, clicking noises, or limited jaw movement, seeing a dentist or TMJ specialist in Franklinville, NJ such as Dr. Gottleib can help provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatments.
Symptoms of TMJ
There are several common symptoms associated with TMJ disorders patients may experience. These can include:
- Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck, and shoulders
- Clicking, popping, or grating noises when opening or closing the mouth
- Locking of the jaw when attempting to open the mouth
- Difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth
- Headache, earache, toothache, dizziness, and ringing in the ears
- Jaw muscle stiffness, leading to difficulty chewing or pain when chewing
- Shifting of the teeth and changes to the bite
Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some patients experience only occasional TMJ discomfort, while for others it is a chronic, debilitating condition. The severity of symptoms doesn’t necessarily correlate with the amount of damage within the joint. If persistent symptoms arise, visit Dr. Gottleib in Franklinville, NJ for a proper evaluation.
TMJ Treatment
There are non-invasive and invasive treatment options available for TMJ disorders, depending on the cause and severity. Dr. Todd Gottleib is a trusted TMJ dentist providing customized care plans to patients in the Franklinville, NJ area. Common treatments he may recommend include:
- Pain Medication – Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can temporarily reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Jaw Rest – It’s best to avoid chewing hard or chewy foods to give the joint area a rest. A short-term liquid or soft food diet may be recommended.
- Physical Therapy – Gentle stretching and massage techniques to increase jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension or spasms. Applying moist heat or cold packs can also help relieve symptoms.
- Night Guard or Bite Splint – Appliances are worn over the teeth at night to prevent grinding and clenching which can exacerbate TMJ problems
- Stress Management – As stress and emotional tension can lead to jaw clenching and aggravate TMJ disorders, learning relaxation techniques is often beneficial.
- Surgery – For severe cases that do not improve with other conservative treatments, joint repair or realignment surgery may be necessary. This is typically viewed as a last-resort option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, TMJ disorders can be caused by trauma, such as a direct injury to the jaw or face, or as a result of certain dental procedures, such as prolonged mouth opening during dental work. If you suspect a specific event or dental procedure has triggered your TMJ symptoms, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider or dentist for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Physical therapy can be a valuable component of TMJ treatment, especially for individuals with muscle-related TMJ disorders. Physical therapists can provide exercises, stretches, and techniques to improve jaw mobility, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing. They may also employ modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and aid in recovery.
Yes, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ symptoms. These may include practicing stress reduction techniques, avoiding hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw, improving posture, using ergonomic pillows, and maintaining good dental hygiene. Discuss these lifestyle modifications with your healthcare provider or TMJ specialist to ensure their suitability for your specific case.
The duration of TMJ treatment varies based on individual circumstances. Mild cases may resolve with self-care measures within a few weeks or months. However, more complex cases may require long-term management or a combination of treatments. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan and expected timeline for recovery.
Take The First Step Toward Relief
If you’re one of the many who suffer from the painful effects of TMJ disorder, you don’t have to keep living with the frustration and discomfort. At our Franklinville TMJ treatment center, we understand the daily impact this condition can have and we’re committed to helping you smile, eat, and live your life more comfortably again. We proudly serve patients in Franklinville, Monroeville, and Clayton, NJ
Our compassionate experts are ready to partner with you on a treatment plan tailored to your needs, whether that involves splint therapy, medication, exercises, or advanced procedures. Take the first step and call (856) 694-5555 to schedule your consultation. Let’s work together to reduce your pain, restore function, and get your quality of life back.