| The individual will be advised to avoid overusing the jaw. Gum chewing is eliminated. Jaw clenching or grinding is avoided. If grinding of the teeth is done during sleep, a mouth device that keeps the upper and lower teeth from touching may be recommended. Local application of heat may be recommended. Drug therapy may be employed to decrease joint inflammation and pain (either prescription or OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]). Muscle relaxants such as benzodiazepines may help relieve muscle tension.
The temporomandibular joints may be repaired in some individuals using arthroscopic surgery (arthroscopy), a minimally invasive procedure that allows visualization of the joint being repaired. A small telescoping tube with lenses at each end is inserted into the TMJ through a tiny incision below the jaw. It is attached to a fiberoptic light system that allows the surgeon to look directly through the lenses of the arthroscope into the joint; or, more commonly, an image of the joint interior can be transmitted through a small video camera to a TV monitor. Computer-assisted arthroscopic technique may be used with imaging modalities such as standard x-ray, CT scanning, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to allow a detailed view of the anatomy and electronically track the procedure. The repair procedure itself is performed with other small instruments inserted through a tiny incision into the join space. Either fluid or gas is infused into the joint to expand the space and help clear debris.
Stress may be a contributing factor to the pain; in this case, counseling and/or medication to deal with stress may be recommended. In some cases, referral to a physical therapist for treatment such as massage may be given. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor