Your jaw health is part of your overall oral wellness, and jaw pain can make everyday tasks challenging. If you are experiencing jaw pain and tightness, the dentist may check for TMJ syndrome. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments that can help you find relief, including stress management and jaw surgery. This guide will break down the basics of TMJ and what to expect from treatment. 

What Is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. This disorder is caused by a variety of factors, including stress, teeth grinding, genetics, a jaw injury, and arthritis. While some patients may feel relief after just a few days, others may experience chronic symptoms and need treatment like jaw surgery.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms of TMJ vary by person, so always see your dentist for diagnosis. Some of the most common signs of TMJ include locking of the joint, clicking, facial pain, joint pain, difficulty chewing, and headaches. Your dentist will assess these symptoms and suggest some lifestyle changes or simple treatments to start. 

How Is It Treated?

To begin, your dentist will likely recommend resting your jaw, wearing a night guard, and eating soft foods. They may also recommend stress management techniques to help prevent jaw clenching. Physical therapy may also be an option for some patients, and orthodontic work can correct a misaligned bite. Dentists may also prescribe muscle relaxers to help ease the tension in the jaw. 

When Is Surgery Required?

If non-invasive therapies and lifestyle changes aren’t effective long-term, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend jaw surgery. Some surgeries are less invasive, like arthrocentesis, where the surgeon inserts a small needle into the jaw joint to remove debris and provide lubrication. In more severe cases, patients may require open jaw surgery. Your oral surgeon can determine which procedure is best for your health needs.

If you are living with TMJ, the team at Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can help you find relief. Located in Keller, TX, these oral surgeons are devoted to providing personal and compassionate care. Whether you need wisdom tooth extraction or jaw surgery, they will thoroughly discuss your health needs and curate a care plan for you. To learn more about their services, visit them online today. You can also call (817) 741-2200 to schedule an appointment.