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The TMJ (temperomandibular joint) acts like a hinge, connecting the jawbone and skull. Disorders of the TMJ can cause pain in the joints and muscles controlling jaw movement. In some instances, TMJ symptoms diminish on their own, but for persistent cases, doctors may recommend TMJ Treatment York PA. Medications
Along with other nonsurgical options, medicines that may help alleviate TMJ-associated pain include:
Painkillers: if OTC pain medicines do not work, your dentist or physician may prescribe prescription pain relievers.
Antidepressants: Medicines such as amitriptyline (Elavil) are usually used to treat depression, but are prescribed off-label for pain relief.
Sedatives: If teeth clenching is aggravating the pain, your physician may prescribe clonazepam or another sedative.
Muscle relaxants: These are sometimes used in the short term to alleviate TMJ-related pain.
Non-Medicinal Therapies Non-pharmaceutical therapies for temperomandibular joint disorder include:
Physical therapy: A treatment plan may include ice, moist heat and ultrasound, as well as jaw muscle-strengthening exercises.
Counseling: Education may help patients understand pain-aggravating behaviors such as bruxism (teeth grinding), teeth clenching, and nail biting.
Oral splints/bite guards: In many cases, people with TMJ pain can benefit from the wearing of a firm or soft device over the teeth, but the benefits are not clearly understood. Surgery
The above methods usually work, but some TMJ patients do not respond well to these therapies. Below are the TMJ Treatment York PA that are suggested when medicine and therapy do not work:
Injections: In some patients, corticosteroid injections may be beneficial. In limited circumstances, Botox injections into the jaw muscles may relieve TMJ pain. Arthrocentesis: This medical procedure involves the use of needles to irrigate fluid through the jaw joint, removing inflammatory remnants and other debris. Surgery: If a patient's TMJ pain does not respond to the above listed treatments and it is caused by structural issues within the joint, your dentist or doctor may suggest joint replacement or repair surgery. The NIDCR (National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research) considers such surgeries controversial, and recommends avoidance whenever possible. TMJ pain is inconvenient in some cases and debilitating in others. There are many treatments available, but they are not effective for all patients. Only your doctor and dentist can decide what treatments are best for you. If you want to opt for TMJ Treatment in York PA then get in touch with Beaudry Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery or visit them at beaudryoms.com.
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