Treatment Options for TMD

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) refers to a diverse range of disorders that relate to muscular function in the jaw and face — the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). That could mean difficulty opening your mouth, pain in the jaw or face, or any sort of problem with the jaw joint.

TMD can be difficult to diagnose because of the varied causes. Whatever the case, an accurate diagnosis from the doctor helps make treatment as successful as possible.

Most often, jaw problems will resolve themselves within several weeks or months. Surgeries like arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, and open-joint surgery should be a last resort. More conservative and reversible treatments should come first and are in fact the most critical step in the treatment of TMD.

Less invasive treatments like acupuncture and splints can be helpful, but that will depend on your particular case. It’s worth your while to speak with the doctor at our East Meadow, New York office to learn about solutions that could work for you.

A combination of treatments will most often produce the greatest relief for TMJ patients. It’s a good idea to avoid activities that overuse the jaws, such as chewing gum or clenching your jaws.

You can be proactive in finding relief for TMD by trying the following remedies at home:

  • Eat soft food: When you eat soft and/or blended food, your jaw gets an opportunity to rest. Avoid chewy and crunchy food, and food that requires you to open your mouth wide, like apples or corn on the cob.
  • Apply moist heat: A hot water bottle wrapped in a moist towel can help reduce symptoms.
  • Apply ice: Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or towel for no longer than 15 minutes may also reduce pain and promote healing.
  • Do jaw exercises: A physical therapist can help identify the exercises that will work for you. Jaw exercises have been shown to be an effective treatment method that can be performed at home.
  • Relaxation: Actively try to relax the muscles of the face and lips, and let your teeth come apart. Many find meditation, yoga, and slow, deep breathing to be helpful for reducing stress and tension.
  • Avoid wide yawns: Keep your fist under your jaw when you feel a yawn coming on, to keep your jaw from opening too widely.

Our Location

12 Main Street Atkinson NH 03811 *Entrance on Robie Lane

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

By Appointment Only

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

What Our Patients Say About Us

  • "You have reached the pinnacle of the finest dental practice if you choose ATKINSON DENTAL HEALTH CENTER. Excellence through and through. The staff outstanding, kind, caring, and professional. You could not ask for more. The facility is top notch - state of the art equipment and it's immaculate. They are the Best of the Best !!!!!!!"
    Mimi G.
  • "For 14 years I have struggled with a bad root canal! 14 years of pain and infections and each dentist I saw seemed to make it worse. When I met Dr. Reed I was pretty traumatized but he was the most compassionate doctor I have ever met! It feels great knowing I have finally found a dentist I can trust."
    Rebecca H.
  • "This is really one of my favorite places to go! Yes, to the dentist! Not only is the environment calm and inviting and feels like a spa, but everyone is so kind and courteous. The team is wonderful and just makes every visit enjoyable."
    Mary M
  • "Just had my first visit with Dr. Reed. I’m very impressed with the entire experience. Everyone was friendly, professional and competent. Dr. Reed took the time to explain everything I needed to know. I know I made the right decision to come to this practice."
    Mark D.
  • "I have been a client of Dr. Perreault and his amazing team of professionals for many years! I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a dedicated team who have years of experience and are top notch! I actually look forward to going to the dentist because I know I am in good hands with all my dental needs."
    Jeff G.
  • "I could not be more pleased with the dental treatments I have received here throughout the years/decades. Dr. Perreault's personal and thoughtful demeanor is only exceeded by his dentistry skills. He always has the latest technologies. His staff are professional and always make you feel you welcomed and comfortable."
    Paul S.
  • "I second ALL of the praise!!! Hands-down the cleanest most professional place I’ve ever been in.
    Caring ,compassionate , and absolutely the highest in professionalism!! As someone with a very high dental fear and anxiety..I would recommend this practice to the whole world !!
    Hats off to Dr. Perreault and all of his staff!!
    1000 stars if I could!!"
    Dave A.
  • "Great team, called with a tooth ache. They got me right in, staff was all very kind and friendly. Dr. Perreault explained everything clearly. Made an appointment for my next visit. Would recommend to anyone. Happy to have been referred to them."
    Jeff B.