TMJ Disorders
Medical Botox injections can also be used to treat TMJ disorders, which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. The treatment works by relaxing the muscles in the jaw, reducing tension and inflammation. This can help to alleviate pain and improve jaw function.
Our team of professionals will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals. Dr Belinda Capera are committed to providing safe and effective medical Botox treatments to help you achieve relief from Hyperhidrosis, migraines, and TMJ disorders. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Dr Belinda Capera can help you.
What is TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, which connect the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorder can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
The exact cause of TMJ disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
Misalignment of the jaw: This can be caused by injury, arthritis, or other conditions.
Muscle tension: This can be caused by stress, grinding teeth, or chewing gum excessively.
Injuries to the TMJ: This can be caused by a blow to the face, whiplash, or other trauma.
Arthritis: This can cause inflammation and degeneration of the TMJ.
Other medical conditions: TMJ disorder can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from person to person and may include:
Pain in the jaw, face, or ears: This is the most common symptom of TMJ disorder.
Jaw popping or clicking: This can happen when the jaw joint is not aligned properly.
Locking of the jaw: This can make it difficult to open or close the mouth.
Headaches: TMJ disorder can sometimes cause headaches.
Neck pain: TMJ disorder can sometimes cause neck pain.
Earaches: TMJ disorder can sometimes cause earaches.
Treatments for TMJ Disorder
Treatment for TMJ disorder will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:
Over-the-counter pain relievers: These can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Muscle relaxants: These can help to relax the muscles around the TMJ.
Heat therapy or ice therapy: This can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Splint or mouth guard: This can help to keep the jaw in a comfortable position and reduce grinding teeth.
Physical therapy: This can help to strengthen the muscles around the TMJ and improve range of motion.
Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary, but it may be an option for people with severe TMJ disorder that does not respond to other treatments.
How to Improve TMJ Disorder
There are a number of things that people can do to improve TMJ disorder, including:
Avoid grinding teeth: If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard.
Avoid chewing gum: Chewing gum can exacerbate TMJ disorder symptoms.
Eat a soft diet: Avoid eating hard or chewy foods that can put stress on the jaw joint.
Apply heat or ice therapy: Applying heat or ice therapy to the jaw can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Get regular exercise: Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve range of motion in the jaw.
Get enough sleep: When you are well-rested, your muscles are less likely to be tense.
Naturopathic Treatments for TMJ Disorder
Naturopathic treatments for TMJ disorder focus on addressing the underlying cause of the condition and using natural therapies to relieve symptoms. Some common naturopathic treatments for TMJ disorder include:
Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Herbal medicine: Certain herbs, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties and can be helpful for TMJ disorder.
Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help to relax the muscles around the TMJ and improve range of motion.
Dietary changes: Naturopaths may recommend dietary changes, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol, to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.