The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) serves as a mobile hinge that links the jawbone to the skull, facilitating the motion of the jaw in vertical and horizontal directions. Disruptions in the TMJ can result in discomfort within the facial muscles and jaw joints. Our specialized TMJ treatments in Los Angeles delve into the origins of your discomfort, tackling both the underlying causes and associated symptoms to offer enduring relief. We strive to deliver the best TMJ treatment Los Angeles has to offer.

What is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint plays an essential role in our daily lives by facilitating everyday functions such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Positioned bilaterally on either side of the head, it serves as the point of articulation where the jawbone connects with the skull. When the TMJ experiences displacement or when persistent teeth grinding occurs, individuals may experience intense and sharp pain in the jaw, which can subsequently lead to severe sharp pains in the jaw, headaches, and various other forms of discomfort.

What causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder can result from a wide range of causes, including injury, teeth grinding, arthritis, and general use. However, many patients and treatment providers fail to address the impact that posture can have on the development of TMJ disorder. By identifying the causes contributing to your TMJ disorder symptoms, you can reduce your symptoms and prevent future damage.

TMJ Disorder Due to Injury

TMJ disorder can result from any injury affecting the jaw bone or surrounding muscles. Damage to this area can cause long-term discomfort or inflammation as well as affect joint mobility. Treatment for this type of condition consists of correcting the effects of the initial injury as well as addressing any secondary concerns to restore total comfort and functionality in the jaw.

Teeth Grinding & TMJ Disorder

Teeth grinding or clenching places additional stress on the jaw, often contributing to the development of TMJ disorder. We offer solutions to reduce teeth grinding and minimize its effects, offering long-term relief from TMJ disorder symptoms.

TMJ Disorder Caused by Arthritis

Arthritis in the jaw affects various tissues within the joint, which can affect how the joint functions and cause deterioration of the cartilage within the joint. The key to treating this type of TMJ disorder is preventing further damage to the joint’s components and reducing inflammation so that you move your jaw comfortably.

TMJ Disorder From General Use

Over time, tissues within the jaw can become worn. As this occurs, you may notice increasing discomfort or a lack of joint mobility. With our thorough diagnostic process, we can help you pinpoint the source of your condition and mitigate symptoms.

Poor Posture & TMJ Disorder

At the Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat, & Allergy, we take this primary contributor into account to provide you with the most comprehensive results and best overall wellness. Our goal is to empower patients to proactively reduce symptoms through education for ultimate relief and less reliance on in-office treatment. Our knowledgeable staff will equip you with the proper stretching and strengthening exercises to help you correct your posture and alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorder.

How is TMJ Disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing TMJ disorder and its causes typically involves a physical examination to identify any swelling or tenderness in or around the joint, assessing reported symptoms, and diagnostic imaging when needed. This may include X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI for a comprehensive look at how your joint functions.

Treating TMJ Disorder

Treatment for TMJ disorder varies depending on the cause of each individual patient’s condition. We offer physical therapy, tools for reducing stress, laser therapy, and medications designed to reduce contributing factors and symptoms.

Soft Tissue Massage

Soft tissue massage and myofascial release offer fast and effective relief from TMJ disorder symptoms by alleviating tension and promoting mobility within the jaw and fascial systems. This area of treatment reduces inflammation, delivering an immediate increase in comfort and promoting an overall sense of well-being.

The myofascial system includes the muscles, lymphatic system, vascular tissue, and nervous system within the face. By gently and methodically manipulating the various components of the myofascial system, myofascial release increases muscle relaxation and flexibility and improves vascular and lymphatic function.

The Graston Technique® is an instrument-assisted mobilization method offering faster relief, shorter treatment duration, a reduced need for anti-inflammatory medications, and an ultimate solution to some chronic conditions. Using specialized instruments, the Graston Technique is used to detect and treat inflammation and soft tissue problems in specific areas. Applying the Graston Technique for TMJ disorder offers enhanced precision, optimal results, and faster relief than traditional methods.

Low-Level Laser Therapy

Low-level (or cold) laser therapy is an innovative approach to TMJ disorder that delivers relief without painful, invasive treatment or side effects. Cold laser devices are FDA-approved as a safe and effective pain relief option, offering precise soft tissue treatment.

A handheld device delivers cold laser light deep within the joint and surrounding inflamed tissues to enhance red blood cell production and lymphatic movement oxygenation in targeted areas, stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanism.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy aims to address the underlying causes of TMJ disorder by improving the strength, flexibility, and alignment of the jaw and surrounding musculature. Manual therapy techniques may involve gentle manipulation of the jaw and neck to reduce muscle tension and improve joint mobility. Exercises focus on strengthening the muscles that support the jaw while promoting relaxation in tense muscles.

Additionally, physical therapists provide valuable education on posture, ergonomics, and self-care practices. Patients learn techniques to reduce stress and avoid habits like clenching or grinding their teeth, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.

Through consistent physical therapy, our Los Angeles TMJ treatment patients can experience reduced pain, improved jaw function, and increased quality of life. By addressing the root causes of TMJ disorder and providing patients with tools to manage their condition, physical therapy offers a holistic approach to relieving TMJ discomfort without resorting to more invasive interventions.

Botox for TMJ Disorder

Botox is a neurotoxin that originates from Clostridium botulinum, a naturally occurring neuromodulator. It has traditionally been a popular and effective choice for cosmetic procedures and has now found additional applications in the management of TMJ issues. When it comes to TMJ treatment in Los Angeles, the specialists at LAENT advocate a conservative approach, emphasizing the principle of using minimal amounts of neurotoxin to achieve the desired facial muscle relaxation effect.

Numerous Los Angeles TMJ patients seeking treatment have reported experiencing a significant improvement shortly after their initial treatment session. The full extent of relief may become apparent within approximately one week following the treatment.

Administered by a board-certified healthcare provider, Botox is a non-surgical option for relief from TMJ-related discomfort and jaw tension. This treatment entails the temporary paralysis of targeted muscles, which, in turn, promotes relaxation and relief from the tension associated with TMJ issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Botox used for TMJ therapy?

The Botulinum Toxins are injected mainly in the temporalis, frontalis, and masseter areas. Additional sites can be chosen for injections depending on the severity of your headaches. These treatments do not affect any other areas of your body. Only the areas injected with Botox are “released” as far as tension and getting pain relief.

How long do the results of TMJ Disorder treatment last?

Our TMJ disorder treatments offer indefinite relief from symptoms. While some patients require regular maintenance treatments, others are able to manage their TMJ disorder through physical therapy tools.

What are the risks of Botox for TMJ Disorder?

Botox for TMJ disorder poses minimal risk. However, some patients may experience some mild bruising or swelling around injection sites immediately after treatment.

Is there a permanent solution for TMJ Disorder?

For most patients, permanent relief is possible through proper care. Our thorough approach allows us to identify the source of your symptoms for optimally precise treatment.

Can TMJ Disorder go away on its own?

Without adjusting the contributing factors, TMJ disorder is unlikely to go away on its own.

How much do treatments for TMJ Disorder cost?

The cost of treatment depends on the details of your condition and treatment. During your consultation, we will discuss your options, costs, and insurance coverage so that you can look forward to your most enjoyable experience and outcome.

Consultation for TMJ treatment in Los Angeles

Call us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss your specific situation and receive a proper examination. We will help you decide if TMJ treatment is right for you and how it can benefit you. If you are concerned about TMJ and are seeking TMJ treatment Los Angeles patients are encouraged to contact LAENT today to make an appointment and get relief from pain.