What You Need To Know About TMJ in Grand Rapids, MI
TMJ is a common problem for many people in Grand Rapids, MI. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint dysfunction and results from problems with the muscles that control your jaw. TMJ can cause pain in various areas of your face and even make it difficult to chew certain foods. However, TMJs are very treatable, and there are many ways you can get relief from TMJ symptoms in Grand Rapids.
What is TMJ, and how can it be treated?
TMJ is a chronic disorder that arises from mechanical stress and the wear and tear of the muscles, ligaments, and TMJ. TMJ has been linked to such causes as injury or trauma that can alter the TMJ's position, clenching or grinding teeth, TMJ disorders including TMDs, TMJs arthritis, and TMJs cancer. In addition, TMJ affects an individual's overall health-related quality of life due to its interference with their ability to eat and speak normally.
The three main types of TMJ treatment in Grand Rapids, MI, are physical therapy, oral appliance therapy, and surgical intervention. Physical therapy may include biofeedback training to minimize muscle tension and exercises for strengthening. Oral appliance therapy includes upper-jaw repositioning devices that shift the TMJ into a more comfortable position. Finally, surgical intervention often includes TMJ specialist Michigan reconstruction, in which the surgeon repositions muscles longer and creates dental implants that help restore normal function.
Symptoms of TMJ
Symptoms of TMJ can vary in severity and may include pain in the area near the TMJ, difficulty chewing, headaches, or neck pain. In addition, TMJ causes dental problems that can result in teeth grinding or clenching. Therefore, TMJ is an indication that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
TMJ is not easy to diagnose because it has many different symptoms. TMJ specialist Grand Rapids generally begins with rest for mild cases and continues with preventative oral care to avoid recurrence. TMJ treatment may also include analgesics used to relieve pain associated with TMJ, along with muscle relaxants. The use of muscle relaxants is essential because high-stress levels often lead to TMJ episodes.
The best way for you to determine if you have TMJ is by visiting your local dentist in Grand Rapids, MI which will be able to diagnose any issues that may arise from TMJ and prescribe appropriate treatments. In cases where there are no dental signs of TMJ, other sources such as an ear-nose-throat doctor should be consulted because it could signify a systemic issue instead of TMJ disorder.
How to manage your symptoms with the help of a Grand Rapids, MI dentist?
It is essential to see a TMJ specialist in Grand Rapids, MI, if you are experiencing TMJ symptoms. TMJ specialists are dentists who specialize in TMJ treatment. TMJ specialists can provide you with options for TMJ treatment that will help you manage your TMJ symptoms and reduce the TMJ pain you're feeling. TMJ treatment options that TMJ specialists can provide include TMJ splint therapy, a nightguard for TMJs, and more.
A Grand Rapids, MI dentist, is also an excellent resource to help you manage your TMJ symptoms. A Grand Rapids, MI dentist will perform TMJ exams on you to determine if any dental issues contribute to the TMJ pain you're experiencing. For example, dental problems such as misaligned teeth or worn-down enamel can contribute to TMJ pain and discomfort.
Why should you get treatment as soon as possible in Grand Rapids, MI?
There are a lot of reasons why TMJ treatment is vital in Grand Rapids, MI. TMJ can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort that can affect your everyday life, but TMJ treatment can help. TMJ can also lead to jaw-related migraines or headaches if left untreated. TMJ treatment in Grand Rapids, MI, will also prevent you from moving to other parts of the body such as the neck and shoulders. TMJ treatment is often integrated with pain management options such as physical therapy and medication, so there is no need to worry about living with TMJ pain any longer!
Treatment options for patients in Grand Rapids, MI who suffer from TMJ
There are many TMJ treatment methods that your TMJ doctor can provide to you, and research has shown that it really depends on the TMJ patient as to which method they prefer. Therefore, it is important to discuss with your TMJ doctor what treatment option is best for you to receive the best care possible. Some treatment options for TMJ patients in Grand Rapids, MI, might include:
- Mouthguards: These protect the jaw joint by holding the mouth closed and can help relieve TMJ pain.
- Surgery: TMJ arthroplasty may also involve reducing any abnormalities or making a new joint. Surgery can be short or long-term and will depend on the severity of TMJ symptoms and TMJ disorder.
- Medications: TMJ pain relief may also be possible with drugs that include anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and even antidepressants.
- Noninvasive procedures: Other TMJ treatment options might involve various noninvasive techniques, including physical therapy, biofeedback, or chiropractic care. Many TMJ sufferers in Grand Rapids, MI, have found success with these kinds of treatments for their TMJ symptoms.
Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, PC
4820 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 454-1482
https://sleepandtmjcenter.com/