Is there a cure for TMJ?

Have you been experiencing jaw pain, a clicking sound when you open and close your mouth, or difficulty opening and closing it completely? You might be suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or TMD. 

Did you know that non-surgical treatments are available to help alleviate or even eliminate this condition's symptoms? Have you wondered if there's an effective treatment—even a cure—for TMJ? Read on for insights into potential healing options here in Springfield.‍

What is TMJ and its symptoms?‍

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. When this joint causes pain and discomfort, it is referred to as TMJ disorder. Some of the most common symptoms of this condition include pain in the jaw joint or muscles that control jaw movement, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, earaches, headaches, and even facial swelling. 

While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, treatments are available to help alleviate the pain and improve jaw function. Dr. Randi Green, in Springfield, Missouri, is one of the Midwest's leading dentist experts who can diagnose TMJ disorder and, for most, recommend the best course of non-surgical treatment. 

With over 1,000 hours of continuing education in physiologic-based dentistry, Dr. Randi Green has helped many patients who cross state lines to avoid invasive jaw surgery.‍

Possible causes of TMJ‍

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The TMJ is a hinge joint that connects your jaw to your skull and facilitates essential mouth movements such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. 

Some possible causes of TMJ include jaw clenching or grinding, muscle tension, and arthritis. Injury to the jaw joint or surrounding tissues may also lead to TMJ dysfunction. 

See the complete list of TMJ symptoms on Dr. Green's TMJ treatment page.

Additionally, poor posture, stress, and anxiety can cause muscle tension leading to TMJ. While the symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain, it's essential to identify the cause of your condition to ensure proper treatment.‍

Common treatments for TMJ‍

TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, affects the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This disorder can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth. 

Thankfully, various common treatments are available to alleviate these symptoms. 

The main non-surgical TMJ treatment options Dr. Green offers patients in Springfield, Missouri, and the surrounding area involve using sophisticated dental technology to show them scientifically how moving the jaws into a more relaxed position with customized orthotic therapy can lead to lasting relief.

See her TMJ page for more details and a breakdown of how she succeeds for many who want to avoid surgery.

In severe cases, surgery still may be necessary, though this is typically rare and a last resort. If you're experiencing symptoms of TMJ, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional like Dr. Randi Green to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. 

You can see many reviews and testimonials from patients living a better quality of life after avoiding surgery and discovering the root cause of TMD and TMJ pain.‍

How to reduce pain associated with TMJ‍

Dealing with TMJ can be a frustrating and painful experience. It can significantly affect your daily life, making it difficult to do simple tasks like talking, eating, and sleeping. 

Luckily, there are ways to reduce the pain associated with TMJ. One effective method is to practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These techniques can help relieve tension in the jaw muscles and ease the pain.

Applying heat or ice to the area can also provide temporary relief. It is important to remember that everyone's experience with TMJ is different, so finding the right combination of methods that work for you may take some trial and error. 

Feel free to speak with a qualified dental team, like Dr. Green's smile team, who can provide additional guidance and resources for treating TMD. With a bit of patience and perseverance and the right tools, you can manage, alleviate, or even eliminate the pain with Dr. Green's non-surgical treatment to live a more comfortable life.‍

Tips for dealing with day-to-day life while living with TMJ‍

Living with TMJ can be a challenge, but with the right tips and tricks, managing day-to-day life can be much easier. While these are not long-term fixes, helpful suggestions could include avoiding foods that are hard to chew. Opt for softer textures, such as soups, stews, and smoothies. 

Additionally, practicing good posture can ease the tension in your jaw muscles. Pay attention to how you sit and stand, and take breaks if you are in one position for too long. Another helpful tip is to avoid clenching your teeth or chewing gum, as both actions can stress your jaw. 

These tips can help TMJ symptoms but don't address the root cause of your pain. For a complete diagnosis, see Dr. Randi Green in Springfield, Missouri, or request a free virtual video consultation here.

Finally, consider incorporating stress-reducing activities, such as yoga, meditation, or massage, into your daily routine, as stress can trigger TMJ symptoms. By making these minor adjustments, day-to-day life with TMJ can be more manageable.

With the proper care and attention, TMJ disorder is something that can be managed and corrected without surgery by an expert like Dr. Randi Green. 

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to TMJ, it is essential to speak with your doctor or dentist about your needs. Then, you can decide which treatments and lifestyle changes best suit your situation. 

Are you ready to determine if Dr. Green's non-surgical TMJ pain treatment will work for you? Let's find out together.