Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, causing pain and discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas, as well as interfering with normal daily activities. Seeking expert care is essential for proper diagnosis, management, and relief of TMJ disorder symptoms. At CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, our team of doctors, led by world-renowned expert Dr. Jamison Spencer, DMD, MS, provides personalized, effective care to patients with TMJ disorders.


There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to TMJ disorder treatment. Each patient's needs are unique, and an individualized approach is necessary to achieve the best results. At CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we are committed to thoroughly evaluating each patient's situation and working collaboratively to develop a tailored treatment plan suited to their specific needs.


In this article, we will discuss various TMJ disorder treatment options, ranging from conservative, non-invasive therapies to surgical interventions. By understanding these different approaches, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment and work closely with our team to create a personalized plan for optimal relief and long-term TMJ health.

TMJ Disorder Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Approach

Conservative, Non-Invasive Therapies

For many patients with TMJ disorders, conservative, non-invasive therapies are effective in providing symptom relief and improving jaw function. These treatment options often serve as the first line of defense and typically include:


  • Oral Appliance Therapy: The use of custom-made splints or bite guards can help alleviate TMJ pain by stabilizing the jaw joint, reducing muscle tension, and preventing damage to the teeth from grinding or clenching.
  • Physical Therapy: Physical therapists who specialize in TMJ disorders can help patients develop targeted exercise routines to improve jaw mobility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and reduce pain.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers may be prescribed to manage discomfort and swelling in the temporomandibular joint. However, medication is typically only a temporary solution and should be used in conjunction with other treatment options.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Stress is a common contributing factor to TMJ disorders, and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided meditation, can be effective in reducing muscle tension and jaw pain.

Advanced Therapies for Persistent Cases

When conservative treatments prove insufficient or fail to provide lasting relief, advanced therapies may be considered. These options include:


  • Botox Injections: In some cases, Botox injections can be used to relax overactive and painful jaw muscles, allowing patients to experience temporary relief from TMJ pain and discomfort. While Botox may not address the underlying cause of the TMJ disorder, it can provide short-term symptom relief.
  • Trigger Point Injections: These injections involve delivering an anesthetic or other painrelieving edications directly into painful muscle knots, called trigger points, located around the TMJ. Trigger point injections can provide immediate relief and offer the opportunity for further therapies to be more effective.

Surgical Interventions for Severe TMJ Disorders

In rare cases, when non-invasive and advanced therapies have been unsuccessful, and the TMJ disorder is severely impacting the patient's quality of life, surgical intervention may be considered. There are several surgical options available, including:


  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves the insertion of a small camera (arthroscope) into the joint, allowing the surgeon to repair damaged tissues, remove scar tissue, or otherwise address the underlying cause of the TMJ disorder.
  • Arthrocentesis: This procedure involves the insertion of needles into the joint to flush out fluids, debris, or inflammatory by-products contributing to the patient's discomfort and dysfunction.
  • Joint Replacement Surgery: In the most severe cases, the entire temporomandibular joint may be replaced with a prosthetic joint in a process called total joint replacement. This procedure is reserved for patients with advanced TMJ degeneration or those who have not found relief with other treatment options.

Customizing TMJ Disorder Treatment Plans at CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ

Our team of specialists at CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ is committed to personalized, patient-centered care. We recognize that the most successful treatment outcomes result from tailored plans that address each patient’s unique situation. As such, our experts take the time to thoroughly assess each patient’s symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and other relevant factors before recommending an appropriate course of action.


We work collaboratively with patients, encouraging their active participation in the decision making process and maintaining open lines of communication throughout treatment. This individualized approach ensures the greatest potential for lasting relief and improved TMJ health.


TMJ disorders can be a significant source of discomfort and may negatively impact an individual's ability to eat, speak, and engage in daily activities. Choosing the right treatment option is paramount to achieving lasting relief, and working with an experienced team of professionals, such as those at CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, will ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care necessary for optimal outcomes.


If you are struggling with TMJ disorder symptoms, don't wait – contact our team at CSAT Taylorsville - The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ and begin your journey towards lasting relief and improved jaw function today. Our TMJ specialist in Utah will help assess your condition and come up with an appropriate treatment plan.


Disclaimer: Our blog articles serve to educate readers about various treatment options for sleep apnea and TMJ disorders. It's important to understand that while we discuss multiple treatments in our posts, not all these options may be accessible at our clinic. We encourage you to reach out and schedule a consultation with us. This way, we can carefully devise a personalized treatment plan that caters to your specific needs.