If you have been recently diagnosed with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, your doctor may have mentioned oral appliance therapy. With many options available for treatment, it can be overwhelming to make the right decision. It’s important to weigh your options, as everybody is different!
What are oral appliances?
Oral appliance therapy is used as a treatment for many oral disorders, TMD being one of them. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can be quite painful and annoying, so establishing a proper treatment plan is crucial for a pain-free life. Oral appliances are typically worn overnight, allowing the individual to receive treatment without having to lift a finger.
These appliances are custom fit to your mouth and TMD severity. What works for one person may not work for the other, so it varies case to case. Working alongside your doctor, you will be able to find an appliance that relieves the pain of TMD, and is comfortable to wear.
What do the appliances do?
When used to treat TMD, these oral appliances give your jaw a break. Depending on your particular TMD severity, you will wear an appliance that creates a gap between your top and bottom jaw. This will allow your jaw to rest and relieve any pressure that has been put on it during the day. Think of it as a pillow for your jaw while you sleep!
TMD oral appliances may also realign your bite in order to alleviate the stress your jaw has been experiencing. If worn properly, these appliances can eliminate the need for jaw surgery. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather prevent the need for surgery.
Moving toward a pain-free life
While there are alternative solutions to your TMD, it is up to you and your doctor to determine if oral appliances are the best fit for your case. The most important thing to remember is that TMD pain is temporary. If you address it early on, you will find a solution! Work with your doctor to find a permanent fix. If something feels off, speak up! This is your pain, your jaw, your life, take charge of it!
Contact Dr. Sara at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions in Scottsdale to learn more about TMD oral appliance therapy for a pain-free life!