TMJ Treatment Lititz
We Can Relieve Chronic Facial Pain in Lasting Ways
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint that undergoes both rotating and sliding movements to allow a patient to open and close the mouth. Symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) can range from mild popping/clicking to severe restriction of opening and closing the mouth. These symptoms occur when the anatomic components of the joint and the chewing muscles (muscles of mastication) are not working together correctly. If you’re in need of TMJ treatment in Lancaster, Conestoga Oral Surgery can assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at any of our convenient locations.
Why Choose Conestoga Oral Surgery for TMJ Treatment?
- Can Offer Conservative Tips & Guidance for Long Term TMJ Relief
- Can Provide Quick and Easy Referrals to Local TMJ Physical Therapists To Help Symptom Reduction
- If Surgery is needed, We Can Assist you With Scheduling a Consultation with a TMJ Surgeon at an Academic Center Close By
Why Does TMJ Disorder Happen?
There are many reasons these disorders develop, including but not limited to: clenching/grinding your teeth, muscle inflammation, previous traumatic injury, deterioration from arthritis, and joint disc displacement. For this reason, it is important to be evaluated by one of our experienced surgeons at Conestoga Oral Surgery to help determine the cause of dysfunction and provide our patients with various forms of treatment to reduce pain and increase function.
It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care combined with professional care. When a patient is fully vested in their recovery, we find resolution of symptoms and dysfunction improve dramatically. The initial goals of treatment are to relieve both chronic muscle and joint inflammation. This can be accomplished with the following:
- Resting your jaw
- Taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen
- Eating a soft, non-chew diet
- Applying ice/heat to the affected area
- Practicing good posture
- Performing routine jaw exercises with a physical therapist
- Fabrication of a hard acrylic nightguard by your dentist
Stress management techniques such as biofeedback or physical therapy may also be recommended, as well as a temporary hard plastic appliance known as a splint or nightguard. The nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night. In some cases, bite adjustment (equilibration) by your general dentist or orthodontics may be indicated.
If conservative TMJ disorder therapies are unsuccessful, obtaining an MRI of the joint may be necessary. This imaging will allow the surgeon to evaluate the function of the joint and determine if surgical intervention is necessary. Surgical options, such as arthroscopy and open joint repair, are sometimes needed, but are only reserved for severe cases of TMD. For more information, contact our office at (717) 394-3033 to schedule your appointment today.