Meet Dr. Jaime McElroy
Meet The TeamTMJ/TMD Treatment
At Southwest Dentistry in Grove City, OH, we understand the impact that TMJ/TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) can have on your daily life. This page aims to provide you with information about TMJ/TMD, the importance of seeking treatment, and how our dental practice specializes in providing effective solutions for TMJ/TMD.
Understanding TMJ/TMD
The temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull, enabling you to open and close your mouth. TMJ/TMD refers to a range of conditions that affect this joint and the surrounding muscles. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and importance of proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Diagnostic Procedures
At Southwest Dentistry, we begin by conducting a comprehensive patient history and examination to assess your symptoms and determine the underlying cause of your TMJ/TMD. We may employ imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to obtain detailed information about your jaw joint and surrounding structures. Bite analysis and occlusal evaluation allow us to identify any misalignments or bite irregularities. We also collaborate with specialists, such as ENTs or orthodontists, if necessary, to provide you with comprehensive care.
TMJ/TMD Treatment Options
We offer a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs and preferences:
Non-Invasive Treatment
Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management and diet changes, can significantly alleviate TMJ/TMD symptoms. We may recommend physical therapy exercises and stretches to improve jaw muscle strength and flexibility. Medications for pain relief and inflammation reduction may be prescribed, and the use of oral splints or mouthguards can provide relief and protect your teeth from grinding or clenching.
In-Office Procedures
Our skilled dental professionals can perform occlusal adjustments to correct your bite alignment, reducing stress on your jaw joint. Trigger point injections target specific areas of muscle tension, providing immediate relief. Botox injections offer muscle relaxation, while laser therapy promotes pain relief and tissue healing.
Surgical Options
In severe cases where non-invasive methods have not yielded the desired results, we may discuss surgical interventions. These can include arthrocentesis or joint lavage, arthroscopy, open joint surgery, or joint replacement, all tailored to your specific needs and the severity of your condition.
Customized Treatment Plans
At Southwest Dentistry, we believe in creating customized treatment plans for each patient. We understand that every case of TMJ/TMD is unique, and therefore, we emphasize the importance of individualized treatment. We will discuss your treatment goals, expectations, and actively involve you in the decision-making process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance
Following your treatment, we emphasize the importance of post-treatment care and maintenance to optimize your results and prevent recurrence. Regular follow-up visits allow us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. We will provide you with recommendations for self-care at home, long-term management strategies, and prevention tips to minimize the likelihood of TMJ/TMD recurrence.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
To schedule an appointment or for further assistance, please reach out to our friendly team at Southwest Dentistry. You can contact us at 614-594-2002.
At Southwest Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping you find relief from TMJ/TMD symptoms and improving your overall oral health. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a pain-free and comfortable smile.
