Treatment of TMJ disorders

Proper diagnosis is critical to make sure you receive treatment for your particular condition.  At Wakefield Orthodontic Care we will only recommend treatment after conducting a thorough health history, clinical exam, taking appropriate X-rays, and perhaps confirming the condition through other diagnostic tests.

At Wakefield Orthodontic Care we may prescribe a multiple-phase treatment plan.  Only minor corrective treatment may be needed.  Treatment may be simple or require more steps for alleviating the condition, depending on the degree of severity. Some of these treatments include:

	Taking a non-aspirin pain reliever or prescription medications such as muscle relaxants, analgesics, or anti-inflammatory drugs
	Eating soft foods
	Avoiding chewing gum
	Applying moist heat or ice
	Physical therapy
	Teaching relaxation techniques to control muscle tension
	Stress management training techniques
	Posture training
	Wearing bite plates to eliminate the harmful effects of clenching or grinding the teeth, and a better positioning of the jaws
	Adjusting the bite, known as "occlusal equilibration" involving removing interferences when the teeth touch
	Replacement of defective restorations that prevent the jaws from meeting properly
	Orthodontics, to put the teeth in proper position
	Surgery

In most cases we treat at Wakefield Orthodontic Care, the symptoms related to TMJ disorders can be successfully treated to reduce or eliminate your discomfort.  Postponement of treatment usually results in more damage to the joint, muscles, or teeth. 

For more information about how we can help you with TMJ problems, call us at (781) 245-1001, we will be happy to help you.