TMJ Disorder Treatments
Quality Treatment of TMJ Disorder at SDG
Does your jaw click when you eat food or does it feel quite sore and painful when you try to move it? This might be caused by a condition called Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD). TMJD or TMD is a common dental condition that can affect people of all ages, and is caused by various reasons. Think you may have this disorder? Our Practice has various options to help with pain relief and treatment. Schedule a consultation so we can determine the best treatment option for you!
What is TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint)?
These are two joints located at the back of the lower jaw (in front of each ear), connecting it to your upper jaw and skull.
These joints take on the complex task of allowing your jaw to move in multiple directions when you eat, speak or make any other facial movements by acting like a hinge. If anything happens to prevent this joint from functioning normally, it doesn’t just become painful to move your jaw- this pain can radiate across your face to your head and ears as extra pressure is placed on these joints in order for your jaws to move.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder usually doesn’t have a single cause, but in most instances, the condition is brought about when the joint has been misaligned and is prevented from functioning normally. Some common causes are:
- Teeth grinding / Bruxism
- A misaligned bite (due to damaged / worn down teeth or new restorations)
- Trauma / injury to the jaw
- Degenerative joint condition
- Gout, rheumatoid arthritis or other health conditions
The cause might not be immediately obvious to you. When you come in for your consultation, our expert dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your oral health, with dental imaging if necessary, to root out the possible cause.
TMJ and Bruxism
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. Many people are unaware that this condition is quite often linked to TMJ. Whether asleep or awake, bruxism is the unconscious teeth grinding that can occur due to stress, deep concentration, an abnormal bite or a sleep disorder such as sleep apnoea. Individuals who suffer from Bruxism and clench their teeth while asleep will often wake up with a sore jaw or facial aches (and even migraine). This consistent pressure over the course of the day/night will wear down your teeth prematurely and affect your jaw joints, giving way to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder
Symptoms of TMJD vary from person to person but you can generally expect to experience at least one or more of the following:
- Pain in your jaw muscles (especially when eating or yawning)
- Clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw
- Difficulty when it comes to opening or closing your jaw
- Headaches, earaches & facial/neck pain
- Pressure behind your eyes
- Any change/misalignment in bite
- Swelling on the sides of your face
These symptoms may also be an indication of other health problems, so we recommend coming in for a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the exact cause.
Treatments & Pain Relief for TMJ Disorders
When you visit Studfield Dental Group, our dentist will conduct a thorough dental examination of your mouth and jaw. Since this condition can be related to other health and lifestyle concerns, you’ll need to share your medical and social history too. Dental X-rays may also prove necessary to further examine your jaw in detail. Based on these results and the likely cause for your condition, our dentist will be able to discuss the best treatments and pain management options for you.
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Mouthguards / Dental Splint
If your TMJD is associated with Bruxism, you may be recommended to wear a mouthguard or splint at night. This is custom-made, and prevents your teeth from grinding together. This treatment will ease the symptoms but won’t address the cause for your teeth grinding. For example, if your Bruxism is caused by stress, you’ll be recommended to look at coping mechanisms and strategies that will help you handle stress.
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Orthodontic Treatment
If you have an overbite/underbite/misaligned smile that’s contributing to the uneven pressure your jaws are facing, our dentist may recommend some form of orthodontic treatment to correct this. We have several options available depending on your lifestyle, needs and budget.
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Laser Treatment via Fotona LightWalker
Yet another minimally invasive option that helps with pain management is the Fotona LightWalker Dental Laser. With numerous other uses including increased healing, rejuvenating aging tissues, reducing sleep apnoea problems, cutting hard & soft tissue (such as teeth with cavities, infected bone etc.), Fotona LightWalker utilizes laser light energy to warm tissues and lessen inflammation and pain. This is a testament to cutting edge technology in dentistry.
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Botox Injections (Muscle Relaxers)
One of the most effective and non-surgical treatments for TMJ pain is using natural muscle relaxers such as botox injections. This works by relaxing the muscle tissue around your jaw, ensuring that they’re less tense. This allows you to enjoy improved relaxation around these joints and across your face. These results can last up to 6 months. You’ll notice slight soreness at the site of injection but this will be temporary, and can be managed with a cool compress.
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Joint Surgery
This last option is recommended for individuals with severe or long-lasting cases. Most people recover without the need for surgery, however. If necessary, our dental surgeon will discuss all your available options so you can make an informed decision.
No more pain! Treat your TMJ Disorder at SDG.
TMJ Home Treatments
Here are some steps you can also try at home to help ease your symptoms:
- Avoid foods that require excessive chewing (for example, chewing gum)
- Apply a cold/hot compress to your jaw (several times a day)
- Gently massage your jaw muscles regularly
- Cut your meals into smaller portions
- Avoid opening your jaw wide when possible
Why Choose SDG Dental for TMJD Treatment?
TMJ Disorder can be quite painful if left untreated. It can also affect your daily activities, leaving you feeling exhausted and weak since the pain can make it difficult for you to sleep, eat or drink.
At SDG Dental, we will help alleviate your pain with our TMJD treatments. Our dentists are skilled and experienced in treating TMJ and use the latest dental technology and techniques to provide a superior dental experience. So, schedule your consultation with Studfield Dental Group today, and we’ll create a comprehensive treatment plan for your TMJD. We also offer other dental solutions ranging from general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, childrens dentistry to emergency dentistry and much more.
