04
Apr
Four TMJ treatment options for patients looking to address their symptoms
Patients diagnosed with TMJ disorders, sometimes referred to as TMD, often struggle with the symptoms of this condition and how uncomfortable it can be. Drs. Ricardo Andrade and Denisse Montalvo of Sacrament, California, can talk to patients about the treatment options available, especially for those looking for a TMJ dentist “near me.” Let’s look closely at what TMJ is and the treatment options available.
What is TMJ?
Our dentists at Dynamic Dental describe TMJ as the temporomandibular joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth with ease and move it from side to side.
What causes TMJ and TMD disorders to develop?
TMJ disorders can occur for several different reasons, such as genetics, injury or trauma to the jaw, arthritis, or stress-related habits like teeth grinding and clenching. They can result in common symptoms such as pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area, clicking or popping noises when opening and closing the mouth, difficulty chewing or talking, and a feeling of lockjaw.
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What are four of the TMJ treatment options available to try?
- Medication. Many patients with mild TMJ disorders find relief through over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, if the pain is severe or recurring, your dentist may prescribe stronger medications like muscle relaxants or antidepressants to help manage the symptoms.
- Splints and mouthguards. Your dentist custom-makes these oral appliances to fit comfortably over the teeth and prevent teeth grinding and clenching while patients sleep. They can also help alleviate pressure on the jaw joint and muscles, reducing TMJ-related pain and discomfort.
- Physical therapy. Your dentist may recommend exercises to help stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles, improving their function and reducing stress on the temporomandibular joint. Physical therapy can also include techniques like massage or ultrasound therapy to relax tight muscles and increase blood flow.
- Surgery. In rare cases where other treatment options have not been successful, surgery might be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint. Several surgical options include arthrocentesis (a minimally invasive procedure that removes debris from the jaw joint), arthroscopy (using a small camera to diagnose and treat TMJ issues), and open-joint surgery for more severe cases.
Where can I find solutions for TMJ/TMD in Sacramento, California?
Drs. Ricardo Andrade and Denisse Montalvo of Dynamic Dental help patients evaluate their options for improving their condition and seeking effective treatment for pain and discomfort. Call (916) 256-2500 to request an upcoming visit at 3336 Bradshaw Road, Suite #220. We are open to new and established patients and families in the local community of Sacramento, California, and we look forward to meeting you!
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Dr. Ricardo Andrade and Dr. Denisse Montalvo – the Dynamic Dental team
Husband and wife duo Dr. Ricardo Andrade and Dr. Denisse Montalvo head the Dynamic Dental team.
Dr. Andrade received his undergraduate degree in Genetics with a minor in Spanish from Long Beach State University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California San Francisco. He completed hundreds of hours in continuing education courses before establishing his family and cosmetic dentistry practice in Sacramento. He is keen to introduce the latest advancements and technologies in family dentistry, implants, and orthodontics at his practice.
Dr. Montalvo has over 19 years of experience and continues taking educational course and specializes in cosmetics, therapeutic Botox and implant dentistry. Dr Montalvo graduated with a Zoology major from Auburn University, from which she received a full athletic scholarship for fast pitch softball. She received her doctorate degree from UCSF, University of San Francisco dental school where she met her husband Dr. Andrade.
Dr. Andrade and Dr. Montalvo have two kids and enjoy their time off with their children, traveling to new countries on dental missions. Their adventures include Cusco, Peru, in 2023, Rosarito, Mexico, in 2024, and planning a trip to Guatemala in 2025.