Sleep disorders cause all sorts of problems, and are more common than most people realize. Dr. Jennifer J. Cornell, DDS, at Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville has answers to some of the questions that come up about the conditions preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep.

Question: Can laser therapy such as cold laser therapy help treat TMJ symptoms?

Answer: Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate cellular activity. It has been explored as a potential therapy for a variety of conditions, including trigeminal neuralgia (TN) or temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD), depending on what you mean by “TM.” Here’s a breakdown:

For trigeminal neuralgia (TN):

  • Potential mechanism: PBM may help reduce pain by decreasing inflammation, promoting nerve repair, and modulating pain pathways.
  • Evidence: Some small studies and case reports suggest that PBM can help reduce the intensity and frequency of TN pain. However, robust clinical trials are limited, and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

For temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD):

  • Potential mechanism: PBM is believed to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and accelerate tissue repair, potentially alleviating pain and improving joint function.
  • Evidence: Several studies indicate PBM can effectively reduce pain and improve jaw mobility in TMJ/TMD patients. However, results can vary depending on the device used, treatment parameters (e.g., wavelength, intensity, duration), and the specific condition of the patient.

Considerations:

  • Safety: PBM is generally considered safe with minimal side effects when applied correctly.
  • Access and expertise: Success often depends on the skill of the practitioner and the quality of the equipment.
  • Adjunctive role: PBM is typically used alongside other treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or occlusal splints.

The temporomandibular joints are unique joints for a variety of reasons but mostly because the joints are supported by teeth. For this reason treatment of TMD should be done and managed by a dentist with advanced training in TMD conditions. Laser therapy alone my reduce symptoms for a period of time but once the joints are loaded again over time, by putting teeth together, if it is not done along with splint therapy and other adjuncts the positive outcome may not be long lasting and the potential for further destruction of the joints could continue. Determining the “root” of the problem is very important. Addressing the cause and then using treatments such as laser therapy, physical therapy and sometimes medication along side splint therapy brings about the best outcomes.

At Dental Sleep & TMJ Solutions of Clarksville we offer laser therapy and work along side our medical colleagues to utilize all treatments necessary to fit the individuals diagnosis and symptoms. For more, visit the Dental Sleep and TMJ Solutions of Clarksville website or call 931-645-8000.