Bend, Oregon is a breathtaking city that lies nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Many people are drawn to Bend’s scenic beauty and lively atmosphere. However, this robust lifestyle can occasionally come at a heavy price: temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. An estimated 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ, and it can cause pain and limitations on daily activities.
If you feel that you don’t have control over your jaw movements, you may have TMJ. Fortunately, there are many excellent treatment options available in Bend, Oregon for anyone who has been diagnosed with TMJ.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is a collection of symptoms, including jaw pain, headache, and difficulty opening and closing the jaw. This can be caused by various reasons, including trauma or stress. The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that joins your jaw to your skull. It’s located in front of your ears, and it helps you to open and close your mouth. If this mechanism becomes damaged, you can develop TMJ.
Treatment Options for TMJ
The good news is that there are many treatment options available for TMJ. A dentist can diagnose the problem and recommend the best steps to take. Treatment options typically include taking over-the-counter painkillers, prescription painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, and muscle relaxers. Part of the treatment process also involves changing your lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and relaxing stress levels.
A common ailment experienced by many TMJ patients is grinding their teeth in their sleep. This can make the condition worse, so your dentist may suggest a mouth guard to reduce this behavior. Stress-relief techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can also be beneficial.
Treatment Providers in Bend, Oregon
If you suspect you have TMJ, Bend, Oregon offers a wide variety of treatment providers. From dentists who specialize in TMJ to physical therapists and chiropractors, there are many practitioners in the area who offer treatment. Uptown Dental is one practice that offers many options for TMJ treatment.
Additionally, individuals with TMJ can also benefit from acupuncture and massage therapy in Bend, Oregon. Acupuncture has been shown to help relax the muscles in the jaw area, which can provide relief from the pain and discomfort caused by TMJ. Massage therapy can also help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ by relaxing and loosening the muscles surrounding the jaw.
Prevention for TMJ
While it may not always be possible to prevent TMJ, there are certain lifestyle habits you can adopt that can help keep your jaw from becoming damaged. It’s important to maintain proper posture and not clench your teeth. Practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent stress on the jaw joints. If you grind your teeth in your sleep, talk to your dentist about wearing a night guard. Avoid overeating foods that are too hard, too sticky or too chewy and avoid big bites of those types of food.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing pain and limitations due to TMJ, there are many excellent treatment options available in Bend, OR. From dentists who specialize in TMJ to physical therapists and alternative treatment providers, there are many practitioners in the area who can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ. Additionally, there are many preventive measures you can take to help ensure your jaw remains healthy. With these resources, you can unleash the mysteries of TMJ and take control of your health in Bend, Oregon.
