TMD Treatment

TMD TREATMENT

 

Treatment for TMD is divided into two types, reversible and irreversible.

Reversible treatments begin with

1.

Palpation of the shoulders, head, neck, muscles of mastication and TMJ to eliminate referred pain sources.

2.

Medication.

A.

Anti-Inflammatory medications.

B.

Muscle relaxants.

3.

Behavior modification/Mindfulness training.

4.

 Physical therapy.

A.

Moist heat/cold.

B.

Transcutaneous electroneural stimulation (T.E.N.S.).

C.

Microcurrent electroneural stimulation (M.E.N.S.).

D.

Ultrasound.

E.

Vapocoolant spray and stretch.

F.

Accupressure.

G.

Accupuncture.

H.

Injection of 2% lidocaine into trigger points.

I.

Proprioceptive awareness training.

J.

Physical self regulation.

K.

Exercises.

5.

Muscle relaxation appliance.

Of All the above treatments the most important is behavior modification!!

Irreversible Treatments

1.

Bite (occlusal) adjustments.

2.

Crown and partial dentures that alter the bite.

3.

Orthodontics (braces).

4.

Surgery on the jaw joint (arthroscopy or open joint surgery).

Irreversible treatments, such as #1,2,3, which permanently alter the occlusal (bite) relationship of the teeth are to be avoided. Of these irreversible treatments, surgery may only be considered for a small percentage of patients who exhibit persistent significant pain and dysfunction, and only after more conservative treatment has failed.

To arrange an appointment with Dr. Gamerman please call (410) 539-1155