TMJ Treatment

There are various treatment options for TMJ that Dr. Haleem can utilize to improve the harmony and function of your jaw. Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Dr. Haleem will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care combined with professional care.

The initial goals are to relieve the muscle spasms and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant. Steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include:

  • Resting your jaw
  • Keeping your teeth apart when you are not swallowing or eating
  • Eating soft foods
  • Applying ice and heat
  • Exercising your jaw
  • Practicing good posture

Often a special oral appliance, known as an orthotic may be prescribed to help your muscles and joints. The orthotic is a removable device that looks like a splint (or nightguard) which fits over your top or bottom teeth and helps keep your teeth apart, thereby relaxing the muscles and reducing pain. There are different types of appliances used for different purposes. For example, a nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night. It also helps to protect the cartilage and joint surfaces. An anterior positioning appliance moves your jaw forward, relieves pressure on parts of your jaw, and aids in disk repositioning.  Depending on your needs, an orthotic stabilization appliance may be worn 24 hours/day, or just at night or during the daytime to move your jaw into proper position and to let it heal. Appliances also help protect tooth wear. Other treatments may include laser therapy or special injections. such as trigger point injections.  Stress management techniques such as biofeedback, or additional services such as physical therapy or acupuncture may also be recommended.