TMJ Treatment in Los Angeles

TMJ Treatment Options

Some serious TMJ disorders will require surgical intervention or reconstruction. TMJ surgery is typically only recommended for serious cases that cannot be resolved with a more conservative approach. If resolving your individual case of TMJ requires surgery, we will answer all your questions and concerns about the procedure. The treatment options for TMJ include the following:

• BOTOX injections: Injections may relieve TMJ pain and help with comfort in jaw movement.
• Open joint surgery/arthroplasty: This is a more invasive procedure that involves partial manipulation, removal, or full joint replacement.
• Physical therapy: An exercise program may be effective in strengthening jaw structure and relieving pain.

TMJ Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a less invasive procedure to treat jaw disorders. A very small, lighted tube called an “arthroscope” is inserted into the jaw through a tiny incision. Images of the inner structure of the jaw are transmitted to a monitor. Once the source of the painful condition is identified, it often can be surgically treated with tiny surgical instruments through the arthroscopic tube to remove scar tissue or thick cartilage, reshape the jawbone structure, reposition the disc, tighten joint, or insert medication to reduce inflammation.

Arthrocentesis

Athrocentesis may be an option if you are suffering from a displaced disk, have joint pain, or limited jaw motion. Athrocentesis is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. Two needles are inserted into the joint to flush and remove fluid. The injected saline clears toxins from the area, eliminates scar tissue, and eases pressure in the joint.

Physical Therapy

A physical therapist’s job is to work with you to develop a custom rehab plan and show you exercises to help strengthen the joint and the surrounding muscular structure. These exercises can help stretch, relax, and foster healing.

Physical therapy is a good option for patients who seek minimally invasive treatment and who want to work towards eliminating discomfort and restoring healthy jaw function. The therapist works individually with each patient to create a customized treatment plan.

TMJ Diagnosis

In your initial examination, Dr. Aminpour will check for discomfort and pain. He will feel your jaw movement and look at range of motion in the mouth. He may also require additional tests to check the teeth and jaws. Additional tests for diagnosis may include:

• X-rays: provides information on your teeth and jaw structure around the problem joint.
• MRI: looks at the surrounding ligaments and muscles.
• CAT scan: may uncover a contributing issue in bone structure.

Following the evaluation and diagnosis, Dr. Aminpour will discuss treatment options based upon the problems identified through testing procedures.

Medication

Medication may be prescribed or recommended for TMJ pain relief. A general anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, may be advised to help reduce pain and swelling. Other over-the-counter medications may be advised. For more serious cases that involve severe pain, prescription medications may be prescribed to provide relief.

TMJ Doctor in Los Angeles: Relieving Pain and Discomfort

For a personal evaluation and TMJ treatment advice, you may schedule a consultation or appointment with Dr. Aminpour. As a leading ENT professional in the Greater Los Angeles area, our qualified and experienced specialist offers a full range of treatments for patients experiencing ear, nose, and throat disorders, including treating TMJ. Dr. Aminpour’s experience and excellent, personalized patient care can give you confidence that will be receiving the correct treatment for TMJ.

Our approach is highly-professional and our clinic is centered around conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. If you are suffering from the symptoms of TMJ, we invite you to meet with us and learn about the treatment options that will bring you real relief. Schedule a consultation today for one of the best TMJ treatments Los Angeles has to offer.