If you suffer from jaw pain, tenderness, difficulty chewing, or a locking jaw joint that makes it hard to open or close your mouth, you’re not alone. An estimated 10 million Americans suffer from jaw problems called temporomandibular disorders (TMD), conditions most people refer to as TMJ. Simply because you’ve suffered from TMJ in the past, it doesn’t mean you need to suffer any longer.
Treating TMJ
If your symptoms aren’t severe, simple home remedies such as over-the-counter medications, moist heat, or cold packs may do the trick. If not, your dentist may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants or an anti-anxiety medication to relieve stress. Your dentist may also suggest wearing a splint or night guard to prevent you from clinching or grinding your teeth.
If you’ve tried everything to handle TMJ on your own to no avail, don’t lose hope. Another option is orthognathic surgery for TMJ. An oral surgeon’s help may be just what you need in treating your TMJ condition and discomfort.
How Orthognathic Surgery Works
Also known as corrective jaw surgery, an oral surgeon performs this procedure to correct jaw alignment and occlusion. If you would like to find out if you’re a candidate for orthognathic surgery, contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our oral surgeons. During your consultation, we’ll take X-rays to evaluate your bite and jaw alignment. From there, we’ll use state-of-the-art 3-D models and computerized imaging to help you understand your underlying conditions. Next, an oral surgeon will explain your treatment options and answer any questions you might have.
Finding relief from TMJ symptoms can be a long and arduous journey, but we’re here to help you get the relief you need.