TMJ Disorders and Orofacial Pain
At Leading Edge, we understand how debilitating TMJ disorders and orofacial pain can be. Our comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment is designed to address the underlying causes of your pain and provide lasting relief. Whether you’ve been struggling with chronic facial pain, jaw pain, or other related symptoms, we are here to help you regain your quality of life.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders refer to a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Symptoms can include pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty opening your mouth. These issues often arise from factors such as teeth clenching, grinding, injury, arthritis, or misalignment of the jaw. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of these conditions.
Diagnosing TMJ Disorders
TMJ pain can result from various underlying mechanisms, including:
- Muscle Disorders: Myalgia, muscle spasms, contractures, and muscular headaches.
- Joint Disorders: Degenerative joint disease, jaw locking (closed or open), and articular disc displacement.
- Systemic Disorders: Medical conditions like autoimmune diseases, PTSD, or abnormal growths.
- Neurological Disorders: Headache disorders, trigeminal neuralgia.
- Trauma and Stress: Physical trauma and psychological stress.
- Sleep Disorders: Conditions affecting sleep quality and jaw function.
During your consultation, we use advanced diagnostic tools, such as 3D X-rays and MRIs, to evaluate the joint and disc, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Treatment for TMJ-TMD
First-Line Therapies
We begin with non-invasive treatments, which often provide significant relief:
- Relaxation Techniques: Stress management strategies like biofeedback and physical therapy.
- Jaw Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve jaw function.
- Oral Appliances: Custom-made nightguards and orthotic devices to prevent teeth grinding and clenching.
Advanced Treatments
For patients who do not respond to first-line therapies, we offer a range of advanced treatments:
BOTOX® for TMJ
BOTOX® injections can provide remarkable relief for persistent TMJ symptoms. By relaxing the overactive muscles responsible for clenching and grinding, BOTOX® reduces pain and improves jaw function.
Learn more about BOTOX® for TMJ
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances, often called TMJ mouthguards, are used to prevent a variety of issues, such as:
- Clenching and grinding during sleep (sleep bruxism).
- Snoring and sleep breathing disorders.
- Morning headaches, lockjaw, muscle soreness and teeth sensitivity upon waking.
Learn more about Oral Appliances
Therapeutic Injections
Depending on your diagnosis, we may recommend:
- Trigger Point Injections
- Dry Needling
- Prolotherapy
- Steroid Injections
Learn more about Therapeutic Injections
Medications
While medications cannot cure TMJ disorders, they can aid in tissue healing and provide comfort during treatment. Based on your medical history and symptoms, we may prescribe pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants.
Learn more about Medications
Customized Care Plan
Our approach is tailored to your specific needs and symptoms. We combine self-care practices with professional treatments to achieve optimal results. Self-care strategies include:
- Resting your jaw
- Keeping your teeth apart when not eating
- Eating soft foods
- Applying ice and heat
- Maintaining good posture
Why Choose Leading Edge?
At Leading Edge, our experienced team of specialists provides compassionate, effective care for TMJ disorders and orofacial pain. We use cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re tired of living with chronic pain and seeking answers, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you find relief and restore harmony to your jaw function and overall well-being.
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