TMJ Disorder Treatment
Many people experience chronic pain, problems with chewing, headaches, popping sensations in the jaw, and other symptoms that may be the result of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ. A condition which originates in the area of the jaw, TMJ pain often radiates to other parts of the body, particularly the head and neck, and can be the source of extraordinary and debilitating pain if left untreated.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is located in the area between the upper and lower jaw, and is used to help the jaw move, such as when you talk, yawn, bite, and chew. When this joint becomes affected by overuse, imbalance, or other conditions, it can lead to pain and discomfort and a variety of symptoms that may not seem related to the temporomandibular joint.
Symptoms Of TMJ Disorder
Certain type of temporomandibular disorder or TMD — can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. The exact cause of an individual's symptoms is often difficult to determine. as the pain could be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis or jaw injury.
There are a variety of symptoms associated with TMJ Disorder, not all related to the jaw joint. In some cases, those who have TMJ Disorder may not even realize it, which is why an oral evaluation can be critical if you are experiencing symptoms. Signs and symptoms of TMJ Disorder may include:
- Headache
- Ear ache
- Numbness in the arms or fingers
- Dizziness
- Pain or tenderness in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint
- Pain in the face, jaw, or neck
- Pain in the back or shoulder
TMD Treatment OPtions
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms listed above, you may have TMJ Disorder. Once diagnosed, we will be able to assist you in treating the disorder. These options can help you to greatly ease the painful symptoms associated with TMJ Disorder.
One of our experienced dentists will assess you in order to select the treatment option that best meets your needs. Some potential treatment options are:
- Bite-realignment appliances
- Braces/retainers (Orthodontics)
- Night guard to prevent overnight grinding and clenching
- Restorative dentistry
- Medications and Oral surgery
- BOTOX® Cosmetic
Contact Us To Arrange A TMD Assessment
A common sign of TMJ is when you are unable to open your jaw as wide as normal. Popping and clicking of the joint is quite normal and is a sign of wear on the bone and cartilage of the joint. It can be a symptom of mild TMJ.
Two classic symptoms of TMJ are that the jaw ‘deviates’ (moves slightly sideways as the mouth opens) or ‘deflects’ (moves sideways then back to its normal centre position as the mouth opens. If you think you might have TMD , or if you have recently been diagnosed, please contact us today to schedule a comprehensive TMJ Disorder assessment. We can create a customized treatment plan to help reduce your symptoms.