TMJ Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment – Symptom Relief*:
- Limit Jaw Movement
- Maintaining proper jaw posture
- Soft Diet
- Stretching Exercises
- Ice and Heat Therapy
- Medications: anti-inflammatory (Advil, Motrin), muscle relaxants
- Stress Management
- Biofeedback
*Conservative treatments above are used to relieve the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders and do not treat the underlying cause of the disorder.
Physical Treatment:
Phase I Treatment – Diagnostic phase used to reduce pain, increase comfort and stabilize TMJs:
- Physical Therapy
- Myofunctional Therapy
- Chiropractic Adjustments
- Pain Management
- Trigger Point Injections
- Orthotic Appliance Therapy
- Epigenetic Orthodontics with the DNA Appliance System*“The DNA appliance has made it possible to redevelop the craniofacial region including: changing the positions/alignment of teeth, remodeling/redeveloping bones in the jaws/mid-face and remodeling the upper airway. All accomplished without pain, drugs, or injections.”
Phase II Treatment – Long-term stabilization of the joints and surrounding musculature
- Occlusal Equilibration
- Dental Restorative Treatment (crowns, bridge, implants, etc.)
- Orthodontics (braces)
Surgical Intervention*:
- Arthroscopic Surgery
- Open Arthroplasty
- Joint Replacement
*Surgical intervention is only seen as a last option for treatment of TMJ disorders. But for a small percentage of people suffering from internal derangement of the joint (when the discs of the joints are improperly functioning), surgery can bring significant relief. Which type of surgery is necessary will be determined by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon experienced in these types of procedures.
At Impact Sleep Dentistry, Dr. Melika Kashkouli takes a comprehensive approach to dental care. Beyond general dentistry, she understands the relationship between dental health, tongue position and swallow function, joint health, muscle function, occlusion, breathing, posture and many other factors which can lead to many systemic issues.