TMJ Doctor Los Angeles, CA
Located in Los Angeles, Wilshire Smile Studio uses the most advanced technology to achieve excellence in diagnoses, procedures and patient safety/protection. Our goal is to work with you to achieve the best oral health, the most beautiful smile, and the most favorable dental experience possible.
Rest assured that you will receive the highest level of treatment in a friendly, inviting environment. Our highly professional and dedicated team assists you through every step of the process.
What is Temporomandibular Dysfunction, TMD?
TMJ disorders can be painful and can interfere with your daily activities. They affect the TMJ, or jaw joint, and symptoms can include not just the joint but the areas surrounding your jaw, which can cause headaches, neck aches, earaches, and shoulder pain. If you have symptoms of TMJ disorders, our expert can provide treatments.Most Common Signs and Symptoms of TMD:
- Headaches
- TMJ pain
- TMJ noise such as clicking, popping or cracking
- Limited opening or range of motion of the jaw
- Ear congestion
- Tinnitus or ringing in ears
- Facial pain (nonspecific)
- Otalgia (pain in ears)
TMD Treatments
Treatment options for TMD vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. These treatments can include:-
- Medications
- Pain Relievers & Anti-inflammatories: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Muscle Relaxants: Prescribed for short-term use to relieve muscle spasms.
- Physical Therapy
- Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve jaw mobility.
- Ultrasound Therapy: Deep heat treatments to reduce joint stiffness and improve function.
- Moist Heat/Ice Application: Alternating between heat and cold to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Oral Appliances (Splints/Night Guards)
- Stabilization Splints: Worn over the teeth to reduce clenching and grinding, easing pressure on the TMJ.
- Repositioning Splints: Adjust the position of the jaw to relieve strain on the joint.
- Dental Treatments
- Bite Adjustment: Correcting misaligned teeth to improve the bite and reduce TMJ strain.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or aligners to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws.
- Injections
- Corticosteroid Injections: Reduce inflammation in the joint and provide temporary relief.
- Botox Injections: Relax overactive muscles around the jaw to ease tension and reduce pain from clenching or grinding.
- Surgical Options (for severe cases)
- Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive procedure where the joint is flushed with fluid to remove debris and reduce inflammation.
- Arthroscopy: A small camera and instruments are inserted into the joint to diagnose and treat issues without large incisions.
- Open Joint Surgery: Reserved for cases where structural problems in the joint require direct correction.
- Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Dietary Changes: Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing gum or hard foods to reduce jaw strain.
- Posture Correction: Improving posture to reduce stress on the neck and jaw.
- Avoiding Extreme Jaw Movements: Limiting activities like wide yawning, singing loudly, or chewing tough foods.
- Alternative Therapies
- Acupuncture: May help relieve TMJ pain by stimulating specific points in the body.
- Chiropractic Care: Adjustments to improve jaw alignment and reduce muscle tension.
- Massage Therapy: Targeted massage of the jaw and neck muscles to relieve tension and improve mobility.
- Medications
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