If you have symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD), such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, you may be eager to find relief ASAP! Several treatments are available that can help to manage symptoms and promote healing, one of which is an advanced technology known as cold laser therapy. What exactly is cold laser therapy, and how does it help patients with TMD? This blog post provides some helpful information.
What Is Cold Laser Therapy?
Very often in dentistry, lasers are used to create incisions and perform invasive treatments. However, cold laser therapy (also known as low-level laser therapy, LLLT) is different. It uses a very low intensity light to stimulate your body’s healing processes at a cellular level. It can thereby reduce pain and inflammation. It is completely non-invasive and very comfortable.
How Does Cold Laser Therapy Work?
Cold laser therapy is very easy for patients. Here are some notes on what to expect:
- Sessions are short, often lasting less than half an hour.
- You can relax while your care provider uses a special machine to apply the laser to the targeted areas. Some patients feel nothing at all during this process, while others notice a slight tingling sensation. You may also notice the laser probe as it touches your skin.
- Some patients experience pain reduction immediately after treatment. For others, it takes longer for the benefits to become apparent.
- You might have to attend several cold laser therapy sessions for optimum results. Each session can build on the results of the previous one.
Is Cold Laser Therapy a Standalone Treatment?
Cold laser therapy can promote healing in your body and be a great way to reduce pain. However, it does not do anything to address the underlying cause of TMD, which may involve abnormalities in your teeth or jaw. For this reason, cold laser therapy is not a standalone treatment. Rather, it is often used in combination with other TMJ therapies, such as a custom occlusal splint or slight bite adjustments.
Cold laser therapy is amazing! Ask a qualified care provider how it might complement your existing TMJ treatment plan.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Brandon Brunner is an accomplished TMJ specialist in Wauwatosa. He is a member of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain and other prestigious organizations. Cold laser therapy is among the many services that he and our team offer as part of our efforts to help patients find freedom from the pain and inconvenience of TMD. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 414-966-7639.