TMJ/TMD Therapy in Alexandria
Relieve your jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms caused by TMJ disorders.
Alleviating symptoms of TMJ/TMD
What is TMJ/TMD Therapy?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, also known as TMJ syndrome or temporomandibular disorders (TMD), are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles. TMJ/TMD therapy includes a variety of treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms associated with these disorders.
The benefits of TMJ/TMD therapy
From a sore jaw to headaches, popping and clicking when you open your mouth, and even premature wear and tear on your teeth, TMJ/TMD can be painful and exhausting. Fortunately, at Alexandria Oral Surgery, we can identify the potential causes of your discomfort and help provide you with some much-needed relief from the symptoms of TMJ/TMD.
- Reduce pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
- Improve range of motion in the jaw
- Improve ability to eat and speak without discomfort
- Reduce risk of developing additional dental problems
- Enhance your overall quality of life
We can relieve your TMJ pain
Types of TMJ/TMD therapy
TMJ/TMD can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual needs of the patient. At our Alexandria Oral Surgery, we offer treatments for TMJ/TMD such as arthrocentesis, Botox therapy, splint therapy, and physical therapy.
Arthrocentesis
Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that involves flushing out the jaw joint with a sterile saline solution. Interarticular steroids may also be injected. This can help reduce inflammation, reduce scar tissue, improve mobility in the joint, and decrease pain.
Botox therapy
Botox can do more than just minimize fine lines and wrinkles. In fact, Botox injections can be used to temporarily paralyze the overactive muscles responsible for causing TMJ/TMD symptoms. This can help alleviate pain and reduce muscle tension in the jaw, which is usually caused by teeth clenching or grinding.
The TMJ/TMD treatment process
There are a variety of possible causes and symptoms of TMJ disorders. We’ll personalize your care to suit your unique needs, but here’s what you can likely expect from your treatment:
1
Evaluation and diagnosis
The first step in treating TMJ/TMD is to undergo a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis with your doctor. This may involve a physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic imaging tests to determine the extent and potential causes of the condition.
2
Treatment planning and implementation
Once the evaluation is complete, your Alexandria oral surgeon will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs. This may involve one or more types of treatment, as well as lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications, physical therapy, and stress reduction techniques.
3
Follow-up care and maintenance
After your treatment is complete, we will provide you with aftercare instructions, as well as schedule any necessary follow-up or maintenance appointments. TMJ/TMD can be persistent, and often requires regular treatment to maintain a pain-free lifestyle.