What is TMJ/TMD, and what treatment options can provide relief?

Patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, often experience a range of symptoms that cause pain and discomfort. This can carry into one’s daily quality of life, causing patients chronic issues that may seem impossible to alleviate. With the help of a TMJ specialist such as Dr. Jennifer Wahlen of Perry, Utah, patients in and around the area can get the care they need to seek pain relief and improve their day-to-day experiences. 

Let’s talk more about TMJ/TMD and what can be done to relieve and treat this troublesome dental condition effectively.

What is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ is the acronym for the temporomandibular joint, which is the jaw joint that connects the skull’s temporal bones to the lower jawbone (mandible). TMD is an acronym for temporomandibular disorder, which refers to various conditions that can affect the TMJ and surrounding muscles. TMD is often a chronic condition that can cause extensive pain and discomfort, impacting a patient’s quality of life.

What are the symptoms of TMJ/TMD issues?

TMD often presents with various types of symptoms, including:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Earache or ringing in the ears
• Headaches or migraines
• Neck, shoulder, or back pain
• Popping, clicking, or grating sounds from the jaw joint
• Facial swelling or limited movement of the jaw

How do I find TMJ pain relief?

TMJ disorder treatment can help address the symptoms and alleviate issues that can arise. Whether you have mild to severe TMD, Dr. Jennifer Wahlen and her team can help address them.

TMJ disorder treatment may include:

• Botox injections to relax muscles and relieve pain
• Physical therapy exercises for the jaw muscles
• Wearing a nightguard or splint to alleviate grinding and clenching
• Medications to reduce inflammation and pain
• Orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned bites or teeth

Who can I contact to learn more about TMJ/TMD treatment?

Call Wahlen Dentistry today to request a visit with Dr. Jennifer Wahlen and her team. Getting a definitive diagnosis and talking to a professional about treatment is the first step in finding the relief you need to feel better–faster!

Call (435) 246-4602 to request a visit with our team, conveniently located at our office at 2480 South Highway 89 #A.