Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) affects the jaw and surrounding muscles, often causing pain, inflammation, and restricted movement. While treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and restoring normal function, many people wonder if TMJ can be cured. The answer largely depends on the severity and underlying cause of the disorder. The good news is that with proper care and targeted treatments, TMJ can often be resolved, and symptoms may disappear entirely and permanently.
See Your Dentist
The first step toward curing TMJ is visiting a dentist who specializes in diagnosing and treating jaw disorders. A professional evaluation is essential to determine the root cause of your TMJ and create a personalized treatment plan.
Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Nightguards: Worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding and reduce stress on the jaw.
- Dental Splints: Devices designed to realign the jaw and promote proper positioning.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Correcting misaligned teeth to improve jaw alignment and relieve TMJ symptoms.
Physical Therapy Options for TMJ
Physical therapy is another practical approach to treating TMJ. A physical therapist specializing in jaw disorders can help realign the jaw and strengthen the surrounding muscles. Common therapies include:
- Jaw Exercises: Designed to improve movement, reduce stiffness, and strengthen jaw muscles.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization: Techniques to relax tense muscles and relieve pain.
- Electrical Stimulation: Used to promote muscle healing and reduce discomfort.
Regular physical therapy can help restore proper function to the jaw and significantly reduce or eliminate TMJ symptoms.
Other Nonsurgical Treatments
In many cases, nonsurgical treatments can successfully manage or even eliminate TMJ symptoms. These options include:
- Trigger Point Injections: Corticosteroids or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to relieve pain and relax tense muscles. Dry needling is another option to target pain points without medication.
- Ultrasound Therapy: Therapeutic ultrasound can deliver heat to the affected area, promoting blood flow, muscle relaxation, and tissue healing.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding hard foods like nuts, raw carrots, and chewing gum can prevent further strain on the jaw. Incorporating stress management techniques, regular exercise, and maintaining good posture can also prevent TMJ from worsening or recurring.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMJ Treatment
What if Other Treatment Options Don’t Work?
Unfortunately for some individuals, TMJ symptoms persist even after trying conservative treatments. In such cases, surgery may be recommended. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera and surgical tools to remove scar tissue, reposition the joint disk, or reshape the bone. Open-joint surgery is an option for severe TMJ cases. During this procedure, an incision is made to access the jaw joint directly and correct structural issues. Keep in mind that surgery is typically a last resort, only used if other treatments fail and TMJ causes significant pain or limits jaw function.
Can TMJ Go Away Completely?
The good news is that TMJ can often be resolved with proper treatment. By addressing the underlying causes and following a comprehensive care plan, many people experience lasting relief and a full return to normal jaw function.
TMJ Treatments at Rosewood Dental
If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Consulting our dental professionals is the first step toward recovery. With the right combination of treatments, TMJ can be managed effectively and, in many cases, cured entirely. Call 301-515-2466 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you find the best solution for your TMJ symptoms.