What Can Help Treat Your Jaw Pain?
Do you suffer from jaw pain or stiffness? Does it get worse when you wake up in the morning? If yes, you might be suffering from TMJ, a disorder of the temporomandibular joint that can cause pain and discomfort. TMJ can have various causes, including sleep apnea. Thankfully, there are several treatments available to help you manage your symptoms. In this article, we’ll go over some solutions to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
1. Oral Appliances
One of the most effective treatments for TMJ caused by sleep apnea is an oral appliance. These are similar to mouthguards and are designed to keep your jaw in a position that eases tension on the joint. This type of appliance is helpful in stopping snoring and reducing the likelihood of sleep apnea. An oral appliance will fit over your teeth and can be custom made to fit your mouth comfortably. You can wear it while sleeping, and it will help keep your airway open by moving your jaw forward slightly, reducing snoring and sleep apnea.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be helpful in managing TMJ pain. A physical therapist can teach you jaw exercises that can alleviate the symptoms. By performing these exercises regularly, you can loosen your jaw muscles, reducing tension and pain. Your physical therapist can also provide you with advice on proper posture and suggest lifestyle changes that might alleviate your jaw pain.
3. Medications
There are several medications that can be helpful in managing TMJ pain. Some anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce swelling and pain, while muscle relaxants can alleviate muscle tension and spasms. Depending on the cause of your TMJ, your doctor may prescribe other medications to help you manage your symptoms. It is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and not to self-medicate, as some drugs might have side effects.
4. Botox Injections
In some rare cases, your doctor might recommend Botox injections to manage your TMJ pain. Botox is a drug that blocks nerve signals to muscles, reducing muscle activity. It can be helpful in reducing muscle tension and alleviating pain in the jaw. Botox is not a permanent solution, but injections can be repeated as needed to maintain the effects.
5. Surgery
Surgery is typically the last option for treating TMJ pain, and it is only recommended if other treatments have failed. The procedures involve reshaping the affected joint or removing damaged tissue, providing more significant relief in pain. It is vital to note, however, that surgery does have risks and may not be necessary for everyone.
TMJ can cause pain and discomfort, deteriorating your quality of life. However, there are several treatments available that can help alleviate the symptoms. Consulting with a professional dentist in TMJ treatment is crucial to determine which treatment is ideal for you. Whether it is through oral appliances, physical therapy, medications, botox, or surgery, there is a solution that will successfully manage your pain. By seeking treatment, you can significantly improve your overall health and completely eliminate the discomfort associated with TMJ.
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions:
615-850-8445
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
