San Francisco TMJ Treatment

In San Francisco, dentists treat TMJ with a variety of innovative techniques. From exercises that patients can use at home to dental devices and surgical intervention, there are many options for treating the pain and discomfort that comes with TMJ. The key is to intervene early so that you have your pick of less invasive approaches.

Understanding TMJ

TMJ is medical shorthand for temporomandibular joint. This is basically the joint that attaches the jaw to the skull, and you can feel it right underneath your ears. TMJ joints are used continuously throughout the day for things like talking, chewing, and drinking. Sometimes they are used when they shouldn't be, as in cases of teeth grinding and stress-induced jaw clenching.

Some people experience persistent pain in the TMJ joints and seek help from their doctors and dentists to ameliorate it. Although the causes of such pain remain poorly understood, there is evidence that some people develop TMJ disorders following medical procedures involving trachea tubes or following extended dental procedures. This makes it imperative to discuss TMJ risks with your health care providers prior to and after receiving services.

Treatment options for TMJ run the gamut from non-invasive, reversible interventions to complex surgical solutions. Before pursuing treatment, it is imperative that you do your homework and think carefully about each intervention option. It may also be useful to seek a second opinion from a doctor or dentist who can help you to weigh the pros and cons or various strategies. There is much to be done for TMJ, but you must proceed with your eyes open.