Patients are advised to avoid chewing gum or eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods such as raw vegetables, candy, or nuts. Foods that require opening the mouth widely, such as a big hamburger, are not recommended. However, immediately after an injury to the TMJ, treatment with cold applications is best. Biofeedback helps patients recognize times of increased muscle activity and spasm and provides methods to help control them. Corrective dental therapy, such as orthodontics, may be required to correct an abnormal bite.
Dental restorations assist in creating a more stable bite.
Adjustments of bridges or crowns act to ensure proper alignment of the teeth. It is done as a last resort. TMJ arthroscopy, ligament tightening, joint restructuring, and joint replacement are considered in the most severe cases of joint damage or deterioration. Its Many Faces , by Dr. Wesley Shankland , has an entire chapter on TMJ and Scleroderma. I was experiencing severe pain in my jaw and was diagnosed with TMJ several years ago.