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TMD and TMJ Disorders Treatment
Treating TMD and TMJ Disorders: A Guide to Relief
Understanding TMD and TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement. TMJ refers specifically to the temporomandibular joint itself1.
Common Symptoms of TMD
- Jaw Pain: Discomfort or pain in the jaw joint or muscles.
- Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
- Joint Sounds: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving the jaw.
- Headaches: Pain that may radiate from the jaw to the head.
Non-Surgical
Treatment Options
Medications
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can help manage pain2.
- Muscle Relaxants: To alleviate muscle spasms contributing to TMD3.
Therapies
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles3.
- Oral Splints: Devices worn over the teeth to reduce clenching or grinding3.
Lifestyle Changes
- Soft Diet: Eating soft foods to minimize jaw strain1.
- Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress, which can exacerbate TMD symptoms4.
When Surgery Is Considered
In cases where non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be explored. These include arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, and in severe cases, open-joint surgery
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