TMD Treatment
Laurel, MT | Billings, MT

If you’re looking for TMJ Botox near you, you’re in the right place! Dr. Stokke has completed extensive training and is AAFE-certified to administer Botox. She is conveniently located right here in Laurel, Montana – so if you have questions about Botox for TMJ, give us a call or schedule your appointment online today!

TMJ surgery is typically considered a last resort for treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) after conservative treatments have been exhausted. Surgery is usually recommended only in cases where the patient experiences severe and persistent pain, difficulty with jaw movement, and significant functional limitations despite conservative treatments. Here are some situations where TMJ surgery may be needed:

• Jaw joint damage | If the TMJ joint is significantly damaged due to injury or trauma, surgery may be required to repair or replace the damaged joint.
• Jaw misalignment | If the jaw is misaligned, causing pain and discomfort, surgery may be recommended to correct the alignment.
• Chronic pain | If conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and splints fail to provide relief for chronic pain, surgery may be considered.
• Degenerative joint disease | In cases of degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or bone and restore joint function.
• Disc displacement | If the disc within the TMJ joint becomes displaced and cannot be treated effectively with conservative measures, surgery may be needed to reposition or replace the disc.

It’s important to note that TMJ surgery is a complex procedure that carries risks, and it may not always result in complete pain relief or functional improvement. Patients should consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon or TMJ specialist to determine if surgery is the appropriate treatment option for their specific case.

The terms TMD and TMJ are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between them. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder, which refers to a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles responsible for jaw movement. TMJ, on the other hand, refers to the temporomandibular joint itself.

In other words, TMD is a broad term that encompasses a range of conditions that can affect the TMJ, while TMJ refers specifically to the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. TMD can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty with jaw movement, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, arthritis, and teeth grinding.

While TMJ is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull, TMD is a complex condition that involves the muscles, ligaments, and bones in and around the TMJ. TMD can affect the joint’s function and cause pain and discomfort in the surrounding muscles and tissues.

A TMJ dentist is a dental professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Here are some ways a TMJ dentist can help diagnose and treat TMJ disorder:

• Comprehensive examination | A TMJ dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth, teeth, and jaw to look for signs of TMJ disorder. This may include checking for muscle tenderness, joint noises, limited jaw movement, and other physical signs.
• Imaging tests | A TMJ dentist may use imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to get a better view of the TMJ and surrounding structures.
• Bite analysis | A TMJ dentist may analyze the patient’s bite to determine if there are any misalignments or other issues that could be contributing to TMJ disorder.
• Treatment plan | Based on the examination and test results, a TMJ dentist can develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient. This may include a combination of treatments such as physical therapy, medications, oral appliances (such as a splint or night guard), and lifestyle modifications.
• Continuous monitoring | A TMJ dentist will monitor the patient’s progress throughout treatment, making adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.

Overall, a TMJ dentist can help diagnose and treat TMJ disorder by conducting a comprehensive examination, using imaging tests as needed, analyzing the patient’s bite, developing a personalized treatment plan, and monitoring the patient’s progress. By taking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment, a TMJ dentist can help patients manage TMJ disorder and improve their quality of life.

If you are looking for TMJ treatment near you, you’ve come to the right place! Dr. Stokke is certified, specially trained, and has years of experience helping patients address a range of TMJ conditions. Stokke Family Dentistry is also conveniently located right here in Laurel, Montana. Give us a call or schedule your TMJ consultation online today!

There are several types of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) treatment options available, ranging from conservative measures to more invasive procedures. Here are some of the most common types of TMD treatment options:

• Lifestyle modifications | Simple lifestyle changes such as eating softer foods, avoiding extreme jaw movements, practicing stress management techniques, and using moist heat or ice packs can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with TMD.
• Medications | Over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with TMD.
• Oral appliances | Oral appliances such as splints or night guards can help reduce the impact of teeth grinding or clenching, which can worsen TMD symptoms. These appliances work by repositioning the jaw or cushioning the teeth to reduce stress on the TMJ.
• Physical therapy | Physical therapy techniques such as massage, stretching, and strengthening exercises can help reduce muscle tension and improve jaw function in patients with TMD.
• Injections | In some cases, injections of corticosteroids or Botox may be recommended to reduce inflammation and muscle tension in the jaw.
• Surgery | In rare cases, surgery may be recommended for patients with severe and persistent TMD symptoms. Surgical options may include arthrocentesis (flushing out the joint with sterile fluids), arthroscopy (using a small camera and instruments to make repairs within the joint), or open-joint surgery (more invasive surgery to repair or replace the joint).

Overall, the type of TMD treatment option recommended will depend on your individual symptoms and the severity of your condition. At Stokke Family Dentistry, Dr. Stokke will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer on how to cure TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) as the most effective way to treat TMD will depend on your individual symptoms and their underlying causes. There are several approaches that have been shown to be effective in managing TMD symptoms and improving jaw function. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Stokke will be happy to discuss your options with you and recommend a treatment plan for your unique case.