At Miami Designer Smiles, we often encounter patients struggling to understand the complex world of dentistry. One term they often hear and ask us about is “TMJ”. This term is frequently used in dental circles, but what does it mean? This comprehensive guide aims to provide in-depth and accessible information about TMJ disorders and their treatment, particularly TMJ treatment in Miami.
What is TMJ and Why is it Important?
Before we delve into TMJ treatment, understanding what TMJ is, is a crucial first step. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint – the joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. TMJ disorders refer to a variety of medical problems related to these joints and the muscles controlling them. Symptoms of a TMJ disorder can include pain in your jaw, aching around your ears, difficulty chewing, and locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.
At Miami Designer Smiles, we stress the importance of TMJ as these joints work hard throughout our lives, helping us chew, talk, yawn, and more. Due to this constant usage, they’re prone to wear and tear, potentially leading to TMJ disorders.
Diagnosing a TMJ Disorder
Diagnosis is an essential step before any TMJ treatment can begin. When you visit us with symptoms that suggest a TMJ disorder, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia will conduct a comprehensive oral examination, checking the joints and muscles of your jaw for tenderness, clicking, popping, or difficulty in motion. They may also use imaging tests such as X-Rays, CT scans, and MRI scans to get a more detailed view of your TMJ.
TMJ Treatment in Miami
Non-Surgical Treatments
At Miami Designer Smiles, our dentists always believe in starting with the least invasive treatments. Non-surgical methods for TMJ treatment in Miami include:
- Pain Relievers and Anti-Inflammatories: Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from TMJ-related pain. When necessary, your dentists might prescribe stronger pain killers.
- Oral Splints and Mouth Guards: Many people with TMJ disorders benefit from wearing a soft or firm device inserted over their teeth. The reasons for its effectiveness aren’t completely understood, but maintaining the structural integrity of the TMJ can help alleviate pain and improve function.
- Therapies: Physical therapy treatments can include ultrasound, moist heat, and ice along with exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles.
- Counseling: Understanding behaviors that aggravate TMJ pain, like teeth grinding, nail biting, and leaning on your chin, can help you avoid them.
Surgical Treatments
When non-invasive treatments fail to provide relief, surgical treatment might be necessary. Here are some surgical TMJ treatment options offered in Miami:
- Arthroscopy: The most common TMJ surgical treatment in Miami, this procedure involves small incisions and specialized tools in order to diagnose or treat TMJ issues.
- Open-Joint Surgery: If your TMJ disorder requires a more direct approach, or if it’s clear that your joint needs to be repaired or replaced, your dentist may recommend an open-joint operation. Keep in mind that this procedure is riskier than arthroscopy, so it’s typically reserved for the most severe cases of TMJ.
Life After TMJ Treatment
Whether their treatment was surgical or nonsurgical, many patients report relief from TMJ-related pain following their procedures. While follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, many patients can return to their normal routines shortly after their procedures.
In this guide, we’ve tried to provide an in-depth look at all aspects of TMJ treatment in Miami. At Miami Designer Smiles, every patient is unique to us, and we ensure that each one receives treatment personalized to his or her TMJ conditions. From diagnosis to treatment and post-operative care, our team of professional dental care providers under the leadership of Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia is always ready to provide exceptional care.