Degenerative Joint Disease Treatment

Don’t Let Jaw Pain Define You: Treating Degenerative Joint Disease of the TMJ

Is the wear and tear of life taking a toll on your jaw? Degenerative joint disease (DJD) in the TMJ can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and difficulty with everyday activities like eating and talking. But there’s hope. At Lake Country Dental, Fort Worth, TX, dentist Dr. Snider offers effective treatments to manage the symptoms of TMJ-related DJD and restore comfort to your life.

Serving Fort Worth and surrounding communities like Saginaw, White Settlement, and Azle, we provide compassionate care and personalized solutions to help you reclaim your smile. Call us today at 817-236-8771 to schedule a consultation and discover the path to a healthier jaw.

Understanding Degenerative Joint Disease in the TMJ

DJD, also known as osteoarthritis, is a common condition that causes the breakdown of cartilage in joints. When it affects the TMJ, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited jaw movement.

What Causes DJD in the TMJ?

Several factors can contribute to the development of DJD in the jaw joint:

Age: The natural aging process can lead to wear and tear on the joint.
Injury: Previous jaw injuries or trauma can increase the risk of DJD.
Bruxism: Chronic teeth grinding or clenching puts excessive stress on the joint.
Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to DJD.

Recognizing the Signs of TMJ-Related DJD

The symptoms of DJD in the TMJ can vary, but often include:

Jaw Pain: Pain may be constant or worsen with chewing, talking, or yawning, limiting jaw function.
Stiffness: Difficulty opening the mouth fully or moving the jaw from side to side.
Clicking or Popping Sounds: Audible noises when moving the jaw bone.
Grating Sensation: A feeling of grinding or roughness in the joint.
Changes in Bite: The way your teeth fit together may change as the joint deteriorates.
Headaches: DJD in the TMJ can contribute to headaches and chronic pain.

Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Dr. Snider at Lake Country Dental provides a range of treatment options to manage the symptoms of temporomandibular disorders and DJD and improve your quality of life.

Conservative Treatments:
- Oral Splints (Night Guards): These custom-made mouth guard appliances help protect the teeth from grinding and reduce stress on the joint.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches can improve jaw mobility and strengthen supporting muscles to alleviate jaw discomfort and pain in other joints.
- Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants may be used to manage pain and inflammation.
- Lifestyle Changes: Stress management techniques, a healthy diet, and avoiding hard or chewy foods can help alleviate symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Arthrocentesis: Flushing the joint with sterile fluid to remove debris and reduce inflammation.
- TMJ Injections: Injecting corticosteroids or other medications into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be considered to repair or replace the damaged joint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prevent degenerative joint disease in my jaw?

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of developing degenerative joint disease (DJD) in your TMJ, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your jaw joint and reduce your chances.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on all your joints, including your TMJ.
Practice Good Posture: Proper posture helps align your jaw and minimize strain.
Avoid Excessive Jaw Movements: Be mindful of habits like excessive gum chewing or jaw clenching.
Protect Your Jaw During Activities: If you participate in contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your TMJ from impact.

Is degenerative joint disease in the TMJ common?

Yes, DJD in the TMJ is a relatively common condition, especially as we age. Millions of people in the United States experience TMJ disorders, and DJD is a frequent contributor to these problems.

Finding Relief from Degenerative Joint Disease Jaw Pain

Living with DJD in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)can be challenging, but with the right treatment and support, you can regain comfort and improve your jaw muscles function. Dr. Snider and his team at Lake Country Dental in Fort Worth, TX, are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to help you manage this condition.

We welcome patients from surrounding areas, including Saginaw, White Settlement, and Azle. Call us today at 817-236-8771 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable jaw.