Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Your temporomandibular joint controls how the jaw functions and any pain in the area may cause jaw joint problems known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). At Alta Loma Dental Care, we offer treatment options for patients suffering from this condition.
For most, small amounts of pain in the jaw do not signal a serious problem. Generally, the pain is infrequent and brief. But for those that develop significant, long-term symptoms, treatment should be sought. There really is no cure for TMJ; at best patients suffering from TMJ can only hope to manage the pain.
If you are suffering from TMJ, you are probably in constant pain. Your face, jaw and neck often ache and the jaw muscles become stiff as well. Dr. Kim recommends that you eat only soft foods, apply a cold compress often and avoidance of extreme jaw movement. In mild to moderate cases of TMJ, patients can use over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen to help manage the pain. We also provide night guards to help ease jaw pain at night. In more severe cases, surgery may be required. Surgery is an irreversible procedure that is often a last-resort.
If you are interested in TMJ treatment with Dr. Kim, give us a call at 909-296-7920 to schedule an appointment!
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