TMJ Disorder Treatment Options in Mays Landing & Somers Point, NJ

If you suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), you may be wondering what treatment will work best for you. For temporomandibular disorders, which can cause symptoms such as facial pain, jaw pain, and headaches, there are various treatment options to consider, both non-surgical and surgical. To find the best treatment for you, contact our Mays Landing & Somers Point, NJ dentist today by calling our Mays Landing office at (609) 625-3499 or our Somers Point office at (609) 927-8448 to schedule a TMJ consultation.

Arthrocentesis

Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a small needle is inserted into the joint space to irrigate the joint and remove any debris or inflammatory substances. This procedure can help reduce pain and improve jaw function. This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, and most patients can return to normal activities within a few days of the procedure.

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera and surgical instruments to diagnose and treat joint problems. During an arthroscopy for TMJ, a small incision is made near the joint, and the camera is inserted to view the joint’s interior. This procedure can remove inflamed tissue or repair a torn disc. Your oral surgeon may also smooth out rough or uneven surfaces, reducing pain and improving jaw movement.

Open Joint Surgery

Open joint surgery is a more invasive surgical option for TMD, during which the jaw joint is opened to allow the surgeon better access to the joint’s interior. This procedure may be necessary for those with severe joint damage, such as advanced osteoarthritis or dislocated discs. The surgeon may remove damaged tissue, repair or replace the disc, or reposition the jaw during the surgery.

Total Joint Replacement

Total joint replacement involves replacing the entire joint with an artificial joint. This option is typically reserved for those with severe joint damage that cannot be repaired through other surgical methods. Your oral surgeon will remove the damaged joint and replace it with an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, or a combination of both. The artificial joint replicates the natural joint’s movement, allowing for improved jaw function and reduced pain.

When it comes to treating a temporomandibular joint disorder, surgery is usually a last resort after non-surgical options have been exhausted. Patients experiencing severe temporomandibular joint pain that affects their quality of life may find surgery to be the most effective treatment option. However, there are situations where surgery for TMD may be the best option. Factors to consider include:

• Severe Joint Damage: If you have significant joint damage, such as advanced osteoarthritis or dislocated discs, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged tissue.
• Limited Jaw Movement: If TMD is causing limited jaw movement that affects your daily activities, surgery may be the best option to improve jaw function and quality of life, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
• Ineffective Non-Surgical Treatments: If you have tried non-surgical treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and splints without finding relief from TMD symptoms, surgery may be the best option.
• Persistent Pain: Pain that affects your quality of life and isn’t relieved by non-surgical treatments may indicate that surgery is needed.

You may find pain relief by managing the following:

• Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce inflammation in the body, including inflammation in the jaw muscles and joints that can cause TMJ pain. Some anti-inflammatory foods to include in your diet are leafy greens, berries, nuts, fatty fish, and whole grains. You may try avoiding or limiting processed foods, sugar, and alcohol, as they can increase inflammation in the body and worsen symptoms. Proper alignment of the upper and lower teeth can also help reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints, potentially alleviating TMJ pain.
• Stress Management: Stress is a common trigger for TMJ disorders and it can worsen symptoms. Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Regular exercise, spending time outdoors, and engaging in hobbies or activities that you enjoy can also help reduce stress levels.
• Sleep: Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation to improve TMD symptoms. Aim to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night and establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Avoid using electronic devices before bed and create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, to help prepare your body and mind for sleep.

Warm and Cold Compresses: Applying a warm compress or cold pack to the affected area can help alleviate TMJ symptoms and reduce inflammation. A warm compress helps increase blood flow and relax the muscles, while a cold compress helps numb the pain and reduce swelling.