Living with TMJ pain can be overwhelming because the pain affects your everyday life. Finding the right treatment is essential for pain management and improving your quality of life. At Downtown Dental, we understand the burden of living with TMJ pain. Our doctors offer oral appliance therapy as an effective, non-invasive solution for TMJ disorder. You’ll be one step to a healthy, pain-free lifestyle with the right oral appliance.
How does an oral appliance work for TMJ pain?
One of the best treatments for TMJ pain is a customized nightguard. This oral appliance is worn at night during sleep to protect your teeth and jaw muscles from chronic teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism).
Bruxism is one of the most common causes of TMJ pain. Excessive teeth grinding overworks the jaw joints and muscles, exacerbating TMJ-related pain. A nightguard over your teeth absorbs the bruxism-induced pressure, which reduces tooth damage and TMJ-related symptoms.
How do I get used to my TMJ oral appliance?
Our TMJ oral appliances are fabricated after precise scans of your teeth and gums. This ensures your appliance fits snugly for optimal comfort and protection. Getting used to your TMJ nightguard may take a little time. However, with a few practical tips and patience, it can become a comfortable and essential part of your nightly routine.
Here’s how to ease the adjustment period:
- Practice wearing it more often: Although the oral appliance is worn when sleeping, wearing it other times can help your mouth adjust gradually. Wear the nightguard for short periods during the day, such as when watching TV or reading.
- Be consistent: Wear your nightguard every night. Skipping nights can prolong the adjustment period. The more consistently you wear it, the quicker it will feel normal.
- Expect mild discomfort at first: It’s normal to feel slight pressure or increased saliva production for the first few days. Your jaw muscles and oral tissues need time to adapt. This usually fades within a week or two.
- Be consistent with maintenance: A clean nightguard feels and smells better, making it more comfortable to wear. Rinse it after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material.
- Store it properly: Use the case provided by your dentist to store your nightguard. Keeping it in a safe, dry place protects it from contamination or accidental loss.
While our oral appliances are made from durable materials, they will eventually need to be replaced. If your nightguard shows signs of wear or no longer fits comfortably, consult your Los Angeles dentist about replacement.
What are other treatment options for TMJ pain?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ pain. Treatment option depends on the cause of your TMJ pain. Your TMJ dentist can complement oral appliances with the following treatment options.
- Orthodontics: Misaligned teeth can trigger TMJ pain. Straightening your teeth and bite can reduce or stop TMJ-related symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes: Stress management, soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, and other lifestyle tweaks can manage TMJ pain.
- Medication: TMJ pain can be caused or worsened by inflammation in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles. We can manage inflammation-related jaw pain with medications.
- Jaw rehabilitation: Physical therapy and jaw exercises can restore healthy function and reduce mechanical strain.
Do you need TMJ pain treatment in Los Angeles, CA?
Has TMJ pain gotten the better of you? Experience significant pain relief with oral appliance therapy and other treatments. Call 213-863-9464 or email office@downtowndentalLA.com and schedule an appointment with Downtown Dental.
