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The most common treatments for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders include:
- Self-care practices: This includes techniques such as applying ice packs or moist heat, eating soft foods, avoiding extreme jaw movements, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining good posture.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate pain associated with TMJ disorders.
- Dental treatments: Your dentist may recommend treatments such as occlusal adjustments (adjusting the bite), dental splints or mouth guards to alleviate jaw clenching or teeth grinding, dental restoration to correct bite issues, or orthodontic treatment.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy techniques such as jaw exercises, stretching, and massage can help improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
- Stress management: Stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, biofeedback, counseling, or cognitive-behavioral therapy may be recommended to help reduce jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
- Injections: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids or Botox into the jaw muscles may be recommended to relieve pain and muscle tension.
- Surgery: Surgery is typically considered as a last resort for severe cases of TMJ disorders that do not respond to other treatments. Surgical options may include arthrocentesis (flushing out the joint), arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery to repair the joint), or open joint surgery to repair or replace the joint.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or dentist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.