Temporomandibular joint disorder can be a nightmare for anyone who suffers from its symptoms, and oftentimes a TMJ doctor is the only person who can help.
Whether it is persistent pain in the jaw, throbbing headaches that never seem to go away, ringing earaches that are impossible to ignore, or any of the numerous painful symptoms that result from this condition, those who are afflicted with such discomforts are often desperate for help.
If you fall into this category and have been unable to find such assistance in alleviating your own discomfort, know that a specially trained TMJ doctor could be available to give you exactly what you need.
While Temporomandibular joint disorder can be caused by a number of different factors and therefore may require one of a wide spectrum of treatment options, specialists nowadays have more possible solutions at their disposal than ever before and likely can formulate a course of action designed solely for you.
Because Temporomandibular joint disorder involves both dentistry and neurology, potential treatments for individual cases depend on the specific cause in each case.
For instance, there are various options available for helping to treat the teeth and jaw as well as those that affect everything from muscles to a person's unique habits.
In the case where a person's habits, such as teeth clenching or grinding during sleep, is the cause of the condition, a TMJ doctor can fit the patient with a specially designed mouthguard that will help to prevent against grinding or clenching during the night.
The specialist could also work closely with the patient on his or her habits, using one of a number of techniques designed to coax the individual out of whatever habit may be the issue.
There are also surgical options that may correct the issue.
For those who may be experiencing symptoms because the surface of their teeth are misaligned due to any number of reasons, these teeth can be altered to align correctly and help alleviate the symptoms.
More involved procedures, such as surgery to realign the jaw, its joint or its muscles or tissues, are also possible, although they are typically considered to be last resorts after all other courses of action have been exhausted.
If symptoms are not quite as severe or if corrective procedures or treatments are unavailable or not feasible, a TMJ doctor can also work with a patient on pain management, utilizing any number of approaches ranging from drugs and treatments to hypnosis and psychotherapy.
There are also exercises he or she may be able to recommend that can help alleviate pain.
If you suffer from the effects of this painful condition, a TMJ doctor is your best and sometimes only chance for assistance.
One can typically be found through a referral from your dentist, neurologist or other doctor and could make a world of difference for you today.