Conservative, Reversible Treatments Are Not Cures
The conservative, reversible treatments are useful for temporary relief of pain and muscle spasm - they are not "cures" for TMD. If symptoms continue over time or come back often, check with your doctor.
Surgical Treatment Options For TMD
There are other types of TMD treatment, such as surgery or injections, that invade the tissues. Some involve injecting pain relieving medications into painful muscle sites, often called "trigger points." Researchers are studying this type of treatment to see if these injections are helpful over time.
Surgical Treatments Are Often Irreversible
Surgical treatments are often irreversible and should be avoided where possible. When such treatment is necessary, be sure to have the doctor explain to you, in words you can understand:
- the reason for the treatment
- the risks involved
- other types of treatment that may be available
