What is TMJ/TMD Treatment?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the joint connecting your jaw to your skull, commonly referred to as the TMJ. This disorder can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and even headaches or earaches. TMJ/TMD treatment aims to alleviate these symptoms and improve jaw function. At Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates in Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Bill Mestichelli and Dr. Michael Barnes offer comprehensive TMJ/TMD treatment options tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With their expertise, they can help you find relief from the discomfort and inconvenience associated with TMD.
The TMJ/TMD Treatment Process
The TMJ/TMD treatment process at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates is a patient-centered approach that involves comprehensive diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing care to ensure optimal results.
Comprehensive Diagnosis
The first step in the TMJ/TMD treatment process is a comprehensive diagnosis. Dr. Mestichelli or Dr. Barnes will conduct a thorough examination of your jaw and mouth, which may include physical palpation of the jaw, observing your jaw movement, and diagnostic imaging. This in-depth evaluation allows them to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and determine the severity of your condition.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Once a diagnosis has been established, the next step is creating a personalized treatment plan. This plan is tailored to your specific needs and designed to address the root cause of your symptoms. Our South Philadelphia dentists consider various factors, including your overall health, lifestyle, and personal preferences, when designing your treatment plan.
Ongoing Care
The final step in the TMJ/TMD treatment process is ongoing care. This may involve regular check-ups to monitor your progress, adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary, and education on self-care techniques to manage symptoms at home. The goal is not only to alleviate your current symptoms but also to prevent future issues with your TMJ.
The Benefits Of TMJ/TMD Treatment
TMJ/TMD treatment offers several benefits, from pain relief to improved jaw function. Moreover, the treatment options available at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates are non-invasive and designed to provide long-term solutions.
Pain Relief
One of the primary benefits of TMJ/TMD treatment is pain relief. Chronic jaw pain, headaches, and other discomforts associated with TMD can significantly impact your quality of life. The treatment options offered by Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates aim to alleviate these symptoms, providing you with immediate and lasting relief.
Improved Jaw Function
TMJ/TMD treatment can also improve jaw function. TMD can make it difficult to chew, speak, or even open your mouth fully. By addressing the root cause of these issues, TMJ/TMD treatment can help restore normal jaw movement and functionality.
Non-Invasive Treatment Options
At Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates, the available TMJ/TMD treatment options are non-invasive. This includes Night Guards and Botox. Night Guards are custom-made oral appliances that help reduce jaw tension and prevent teeth grinding, a common cause of TMD. On the other hand, Botox injections can be used to relax the jaw muscles, reducing pain and improving jaw function. Both options offer effective relief from TMD symptoms without the need for surgery.