If you suffer from TMJ, TMJ treatment is important and can be highly effective. One of the first treatment options involves the use of over the counter medications like acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and others.
Muscle relaxants can also be helpful in treating TMJ disorder. It can ease your discomfort and can be used for several days to a few weeks at a time.
Surprisingly, there are other treatments in the form of various therapies that have been effective as well. Sometimes, a dentist will put in an oral splint or mouth guard to help with the patient’s jaw alignment. It isn’t widely understood why this method is beneficial.
Physical therapy can help thanks to specific exercises meant to strengthen and stretch out the jaw muscles. In addition, the use of heat or ice is used and can be effective at minimizing discomfort.
Counseling can even help with TMJ treatment. During sessions, you can learn about certain behaviors that can aggravate your condition and are taught how to avoid them. For instance, you may be grinding your teeth or biting your nails. Once you learn that these habits aggravate your TMJ, you can become more aware of them and work toward stopping the behaviors.
Consider TMJ massages. A buccal TMJ massage is a gentle, non-surgical technique that targets the muscles inside the mouth and along the jaw to help relieve tension associated with TMJ disorders. By working these deep facial muscles, this type of massage can reduce jaw tightness, improve range of motion, and ease symptoms like facial pain, headaches, and jaw clicking. When performed by a trained professional as part of a comprehensive TMJ care plan, buccal massage offers a natural, drug-free way to support jaw function and improve overall comfort without surgery.
For more information or consultation on TMJ treatment options in the Port Washington, NY and Long Island area, contact our local dental team today.
This article has been reviewed and/or authored by Dr. Irina Kellerman
