Temporomandibular joint disorder is a big problem for countless Americans, who are forced to endure a daily battle against headaches, jaw pain, facial tenderness, chewing difficulties and/or ringing in the ears. Researchers have tested numerous different experimental treatments for TMD, with some showing promise and others proving unsuccessful. Recently, a group of researchers assessed the efficacy of a high-tech treatment to see if it provided TMD relief. Unfortunately, the results were disappointing.
Low Level Laser Therapy
Researchers from the Craniomandibular Pain Center at Tufts University analyzed several studies that tested low level laser therapy (LLLT) to see if it might serve as a viable treatment for temporomandibular joint disorder. According to their report, the studies varied considerably in terms of methodology, particularly in laser beam duration, beam features (dosage, output, frequency, wavelength), laser beam application and the number of applications performed. In the end, however, none of this appeared to matter, since the researchers ultimately determined that the studies provided no evidence that supported any sort of definitive conclusion regarding whether or not LLLT would offer any TMD relief.
Help Is Already Here
Every day, it seems scientists publish a new report detailing some strange approach to treating temporomandibular joint disorder. More often than not, these treatments prove disappointing, with most offering little – if any – TMD relief. In reality, there’s no reason to search for experimental TMD treatments, because an effective solution already exists.
The vast majority of the time, temporomandibular joint disorder occurs thanks to a misaligned bite. Once this problem is corrected, patients tend to experience complete relief from symptoms associated with TMD.
If TMD is making you miserable; it’s time to reach out for help. Dr. Berry can offer permanent relief by fixing your bad bite; so you can live a happy, symptom-free life the way it was meant to be. To learn more, please call (303) 691-0267 at the TMJ Therapy & Sleep Center of Colorado in Denver today.
