TMJ - TMD Treatment

TMJ Treatment in Wellesley MA

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can cause headaches and severe and chronic pain in the jaw and facial region.

Where is the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)?

Several muscles in your jaw converge in your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Because your jaw can perform so many different movements (opening, closing, extending, and gliding back and forth), the TMJ is a complex joint. It is also one of the joints you use most –– think of how often you move your jaw during the day to speak and eat.

The TMJ Anatomy

The physical makeup of the TMJ includes a small disc, a ball, and a socket. The disc acts as a cushion when you open, close, and move your jaw. If something disrupts or causes the joint to function improperly, pain can develop and increase over time. This effect is called temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD.

Diagnosing TMD

Dr. Bullock can diagnose whether your headaches and/or jaw pain are caused by TMD. A number of dental problems can manifest as jaw pain or headaches. Talk to Dr. Bullock immediately to find find the cause of your pain and start on TMJ treatment if appropriate.

TMD Treatment Options:

• Medications: An anti-inflammatory is often helpful in treating TMD by reducing any swelling the disorder causes.
• Wear a Dental Appliance: A splint or mouth-guard can be custom-fitted to immobilize or prevent the jaw from performing excessive movement, allowing the TM joint to heal.
• Hot and Cold Therapy: Another effective TMD treatment is applying applying an alternating regimen of heat and cold to the jaw can help relax the jaw.
• Reducing Chewing: Foods that require a lot of chewing should be avoided. Chewing gum should also be eliminated. While this may appear to be avoidance rather than TMJ treatment, the joint can heal more quickly when it is not used strenuously.
• Reducing Movement: Some activities that use the TMJ a fair amount, such as singing, may need to be scaled back. Wide yawning can also aggravate the joint. Any activity that places pressure on the jaw or could otherwise adversely affect jaw movement should be avoided.
• Visiting Dr. Bullock: Depending on the cause and severity of your TMD, you may need to set up a regular, in-office TMD treatment program.

The causes of TMD vary widely and can best be treated in early stages by Dr. Bullock in the Weston, Massachusetts area. Speak with us about concerns and questions you have. Dr. Bullock will help determine the causes of your TMJ disorder and what can be done to treat TMD. Just call our Wellesley office today or fill out the simple form on this page, and we will be glad to contact you.