If you are waking up with headaches frequently, experiencing lockjaw and pain of the face, or struggle to chew due to your temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), you are eager to get some relief. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment can go a long way in reducing the symptoms of TMD, but how long do you need to wait till you see results? Continue reading to learn more about TMJ treatment options and how long they take to work.
Which TMJ Treatment Options Are Available?
TMD can be the result of many different causes, including physical trauma, stress, teeth grinding, arthritis, uneven bites, and other problems. Here’s what you can typically expect for each one:
- Occlusal Splint: An occlusal splint can be worn during the night to shift the jaw into proper position. This treatment can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for patients to experience relief. This will depend on the severity of your disorder and compliance with your treatment.
- Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment: This is a simple procedure where your dentist will check your bite and adjust the shape of your teeth to help them come together more functionally. This helps to make sure that one of your jaw joints isn’t more overworked than the other. Relief time can vary depending on the changes being made. Generally speaking, once the bite is well aligned, most patients experience some relief soon after.
How Else Can You Get Relief From TMD?
If you have mild TMD or you are just beginning your treatment, there are some other steps you can take to minimize your discomfort. Here are some tips that may help:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed.
- Stick to softer foods to minimize chewing.
- Periodically apply a cold or hot pack to the painful joint.
- Perform jaw stretches recommended by your dentist.
- Be mindful of when you are tensing your jaw. By making the effort to relax it, you can lessen the severity of your symptoms.
- Avoid chewing beef jerky, gum, or other foods that can overwork the jaw.
Don’t let TMD reduce your quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms, talk to your dentist. There are options out there to help you get some relief, including treatments and at-home techniques. With diligence and patience, you will see a difference in just a matter of time!
About the Practice
At Grateful Dentists, Dr. Adam Danzig and Dr. Rachel Snook work together to treat patients in the Billerica community. If you experience discomfort of your TMJs, they would be happy to take a look and discuss treatment options with you. For more information on TMJ treatment, or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (978) 667-5807.