No one treatment can resolve TMJ disorders completely and treatment takes time to become effective. Dr. Block can help you have a healthier and more comfortable jaw.
Are You Experiencing Jaw Issues?
There are various treatment options that Dr. Block can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Dr. Block will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care joined with professional care.
The initial goals are to relieve the muscle spasm and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with an anti-inflammator pain reliever, a liquid diet, and physical therapy. Occasionally, steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation.
Stress management techniques such as biofeedback or physical therapy may also be recommended, as well as a temporary, clear plastic appliance known as a splint. A splint (or nightguard) fits over your top or bottom teeth and helps keep your teeth apart, thereby relaxing the muscles and reducing pain. A nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night and helps to protect the cartilage and joint surfaces. Appliances also help to protect from tooth wear.
If your TMJ disorder has caused problems with how your teeth fit together, you may need treatment such as bite adjustment (equilibration), orthodontics with or without jaw reconstruction, or restorative dental work. Surgical options such as arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, and open joint repair restructuring are sometimes needed, but are reserved for severe cases. Dr. Block does not consider TMJ surgery unless the jaw cannot function and is painful.
Arthrocentesis: This is the procedure that Dr. Block recommends for pain that is located within the TMJ. If your pain extends to your neck, temples, and along the side of your face, then you most likely have a muscle component to your pain. Nonsurgical treatment can often eliminate your pain or isolate it to your TMJ. If your pain is severe in the TMJ, Dr. Block recommends that he perform arthrocentesis. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under intravenous sedation in the clinic. The joint is rinsed and adhesions are released through the irrigation process. Most patients feel tremendous pain relief. Dr. Block will discuss this option with you during your consultation visit.
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