Jaw pain can be a bothersome condition for many individuals. The jaw joint, or temporomandibular joint, can experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders for a number of reasons. TMJ disorders can lead to head and neck pain, jaw pain, headaches, locked jaw and popping sounds when an individual bites. OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine® offers Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas patients a TMJ treatment called a temporomandibular joint injection.
What is the Temporomandibular Joint?
The temporomandibular joint is made up of the bone below the mouth and the bone just above the mouth. The TMJ allows the upper jaw to close on the lower jaw and is one of the most frequently used joints in the body.
The temporomandibular joint is a highly complex system of muscles, tendons and bones. An injury to this area can cause jaw pain, tooth pain, difficulty chewing, aching and tenderness or a popping sensation.
For many individuals, the signs and symptoms of a TMJ disorder can improve with self-care over time. Patients should seek medical attention for a TMJ treatment if there is persistent jaw pain and tenderness, or if the jaw cannot be closed completely. If a TMJ treatment is needed, a temporomandibular joint injection may be a viable treatment option.
What is a Temporomandibular Joint Injection?
A TMJ treatment option is designed for patients who do not get pain relief with self-care. Temporomandibular joint injection is an intra-articularis injection that uses local anesthetics or corticosteroids. The corticosteroid suppresses the immune system so inflammation is reduced, leading to a reduction of pain.
Many individuals report feeling less pain within the first 24 hours to several days following a temporomandibular joint injection. Individuals may also experience reduced pain for a period of weeks to several months following this TMJ treatment. Corticosteroids do not have many severe side effects but they should not be used for an extended period of time in many cases.
BOTOX® can also be used as an alternative treatment option. When injected into the facial muscles afflicted with pain and soreness, BOTOX® may relieve jaw tension. The injection may also eliminate headaches associated with teeth grinding and lock jaw.
To learn if a temporomandibular joint injection is the correct TMJ treatment for you, please contact the physicians at OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine®.