Diagnosing Temporo Mandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ)

After discussing your symptoms, Soult & Swanson Family Dentistry and Implant Center professionals will examine your jaw to feel how it moves as you open and close your mouth. We will also listen for popping or grinding noises and press around your jaw to pinpoint areas of discomfort. If needed, we will order dental x-rays of your teeth and jaw. In some cases, we may order a CT scan of the jawbones and joint to see more detail or an MRI to look for problems inside the joint. When we have the necessary diagnostic information, we craft a TMJ treatment plan customized to your needs.

Medications

Your dentist may recommend combining medications with nightguards to help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by TMJ disorders. Common medications include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
• Muscle relaxants, used for a few days or weeks to relieve TMJ-related muscle spasms that are causing pain
• Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, sometimes used in low doses for pain relief, bruxism control, and sleeplessness

Physical Therapy

In addition to nightguards and medications, some patients benefit from exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles. Physical therapy treatments may also include ultrasound, moist heat, or ice packs.

Call Soult & Swanson Family Dentistry and Implant Center Today

Get started today on eliminating your TMJ pain and discomfort. Call Soult & Swanson Family Dentistry and Implant Center at (303) 337-2794 to schedule an appointment for TMJ treatment. We are conveniently located at 3100 S. Parker Road, just west of I-225 and only two blocks from the Nine Mile Light Rail Station. Parking is easy and handicap-accessible.