Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are problems related to your jaw joint. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important. If you have pain in your jaw joints or find it difficult to open or close your mouth without causing pain, then you may suffer from a TMJ disorder.
Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of temporomandibular disorder, Dr. Wolfrom will determine the proper course of treatment. There are various treatment options that can be utilized to improve your TMJ disorder.
Once a diagnosis is attained, there are several ways in which relief can be initially provided. A mouth bite appliance can be made to stop teeth grinding especially during the night. In addition certain patients respond well to over the counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as Ibuprofen, and sometimes the use of muscle relaxants are beneficial. Using a physical therapist or chiropractor is beneficial to patients who have a TMJ disorder. These therapies will treat myofascial muscular disorders which can be interrelated to TMJ problems. Stress reduction also helps with the recovery of TMJ issues. The majority of patients with TMJ disorders respond well to this nonsurgical management, but this takes time and effort on your behalf.
There are certain patients who do not respond well to this approach and over time may require a surgical procedure to alleviate their TMJ disorder. Dr. Wolfrom has treated numerous TMJ patients with arthroscopic surgery, arthocentesis, arthroplasty, and total temporomandibular joint reconstruction.
Arthrocentesis – This is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in our office. It involves lysis and lavage within the temporomandibular joint, which is the washing and manipulation of the joint under general or intravenous anesthesia.
Arthroscopic Surgery – This procedure is performed through a small instrument with a tiny camera attached. This too, involves lysis and lavage of the joint and in some cases, repositioning of a displaced disc.
Open Arthroplasty – This procedure is performed by making an incision most often in a skin crease in front of the ear. This procedure is normally aimed at repairing or repositioning a displaced disc but sometimes can result in disc removal (menisectomy).
If you have any symptoms of a TMJ disorder that is limiting your jaw function or causing discomfort, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wolfrom.