TMJ/TMD Treatment

Embarcadero Dentistry
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TMJ/TMD Treatment Overview

Are you experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing? You may be suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, also known as TMD. At Embarcadero Dentistry, Dr. Shweta Prabhakar is dedicated to providing compassionate care and effective treatment for patients with TMJ/TMD. Let her help you find relief from discomfort and restore harmony to your jaw function and overall well-being.

What are TMJ and TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing you to move your jaw up and down and from side to side. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a group of conditions affecting the TMJ and the muscles, ligaments, and nerves surrounding it. TMD can cause pain, stiffness, and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues.

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure composed of the jawbone (mandible), the temporal bone of the skull, and a disc of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the two bones. The TMJ allows for smooth and controlled jaw movements during activities such as talking, chewing, and yawning.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of TMD?

Signs and symptoms of TMD can vary widely from person to person but may include:

TMJ/TMD Treatments

Occlusal Splints / TMJ Orthotics: Custom-fitted oral appliances designed to reposition the jaw, alleviate muscle tension, and reduce TMJ pain and discomfort. The difference between NG and Orthotics is that an NG only protects the teeth from forces of grinding and clenching. TMJ orthotics not only protect the teeth but also treat the muscle ligaments and joints as well. Very precise measurements are taken in the office and the orthotics are designed to bring them to an optional position so the muscles can relax and become functional and joints can heal.

Botox Injections: We administer Botulinum toxin injections to the jaw muscles to relieve muscle spasms and reduce pain associated with TMD.

Physical Therapy: Therapeutic exercises, stretches, and massage techniques to improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce inflammation and pain.

Medications: Prescription or over-the-counter medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants, can alleviate pain and inflammation associated with TMD.

Stress Management Techniques: Stress-reduction techniques, such as relaxation exercises, biofeedback, or counseling, can alleviate tension and anxiety that may contribute to TMD symptoms.

Dental Treatments: Restorative dental treatments, such as dental crowns, bridges, or orthodontic adjustments, can correct your bite alignment issues and reduce TMJ strain.

What to Expect When Getting TMD Therapy

  1. Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Shweta Prabhakar will conduct a thorough evaluation of your jaw function and symptoms, including a physical examination, dental imaging, and possibly diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scans.
  2. Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your needs and the severity of your TMD symptoms, she will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific concerns and goals.
  3. Treatment Implementation: Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may involve a combination of conservative therapies, such as oral appliances and physical therapy, as well as other necessary interventions.
  4. Follow-Up Care: Dr. Shweta Prabhakar will monitor your progress closely and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary to ensure optimal outcomes and long-term relief from TMD symptoms.
Our Expert at Embarcadero Dentistry
Dr. Shweta Prabhakar specializes in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders with advanced techniques and personalized treatment plans. She prioritizes your comfort and well-being, providing comprehensive evaluations, conservative therapies, and ongoing support to help you find relief from TMJ pain and restore optimal jaw function. With her commitment to excellence and patient-centered approach, you can trust her to deliver the highest standard of care and guide you on the path to a healthier, more comfortable smile.
TMJ/TMD Treatment in San Francisco
Don’t let TMJ/TMD pain and discomfort interfere with your quality of life. At Embarcadero Dentistry, Dr. Shweta Prabhakar is here to provide expert diagnosis and compassionate care for patients with TMJ/TMD discomfort. Please schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards finding relief and restoring harmony to your jaw function and overall well-being.
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