Treatment of TMJ Disorder occurs in two stages: 1) to relieve the patient of immediate muscle pain and suffering, to relax the strained jaw joints and surrounding muscle tissue so that the jaw can assume a "normal" position; and 2) once the pain is reduced, then the orthodontist or dentist looks at the bite and determines where the jaw is hitting and the teeth touching. If the teeth or jaw appear to still be fitting or functioning improperly, then other (more permanent and invasive) methods are recommended, such as equilibration, orthodontic treatment (braces), and even, in some cases, arthroscopic surgery.
Since diagnosis and treatment of TMJ is complex, it may require a "trial and error" period to see which methods work. Usually, a patient wears the splint day and night for two to four months. This allows the jaw muscles and joints a chance to heal, as well as to "retrain" the patient to avoid any clenching or grinding habits that may be causing stress on the jaw. The use of a splint has a similar effect as you might experience if you have a sprained ankle. Using a crutch with a sprained ankle almost immediately relieves pain and allows the inflamed tissue to heal.
After the initial four-month period of wearing a splint, the orthodontist or dentist may recommend other, more permanent, treatment measures. If your orthodontist determines that the splint itself is all that is necessary, then you may be allowed to "cut back" on the use of the splint to nighttime use only.
Although TMJ symptoms rarely disappear immediately, you will find effective relief of your pain within a short period of time, provided that you cooperate with the recommendations to reduce jaw muscle and joint strain. [See Habits and Behaviors to Avoid] Remember that you must give your muscles and joints time to heal properly for the best and longest lasting results. You will see significant improvement in your TMJ Disorder if you form habits of relieving stress in new jaw-healthy ways, and avoiding behaviors that overtax the jaw muscles.
Arthroscopic surgery, should it be needed, requires referral to an oral surgeon.
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