Jaw Pain is Not Normal
If jaw pain is something you experience regularly, you might think it’s just part of life. However, the truth is that jaw pain is far from normal and could be a sign of a condition known as TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder). This disorder affects one or both of the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), which connect the jaw to the skull. When these joints are misaligned or inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort, often accompanied by other symptoms.
What are the Signs of TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
- Headaches
- Earaches or tenderness around the ear
- Pain and tenderness in the face or jaw
- Muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning, or opening your mouth wide
How Do We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
Diagnosing TMD begins with a thorough clinical examination from our Dentist in Burnaby BC, where we will check your face, jaw, bite, joints, and teeth. During this appointment, we will assess for any pain or tenderness, and we will listen for clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, chew, or swallow. If TMD is diagnosed, the first step in treatment typically involves the use of a bite splint or night guard.
Treatment and Relief
The primary treatment for TMD often involves bite splints custom-made plastic mouthpieces designed to fit over your upper and/or lower teeth. These devices help prevent the grinding and clenching of teeth, which is a common cause or exacerbating factor for TMD. They also help realign the jaw, relieving stress on the surrounding muscles and joints, reducing pain.
Alternative Treatment Options
In cases where misalignment of the bite or missing teeth are contributing to the symptoms, we may recommend orthodontic treatments or restorative dental procedures. If the bite is putting excessive pressure on the TMJs, reshaping individual teeth might be suggested to redistribute bite forces evenly.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ refers to the Temporomandibular Joint, the hinge-like joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it is referred to as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).
Common signs and symptoms of TMD include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ear area
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- A clicking, popping, or grinding sound when chewing, yawning, or talking
- Neck pain, headaches, or tension in the upper back
There are several factors that may contribute to TMD:
- Jaw injuries or arthritis
- Bruxism (teeth clenching or grinding)
- Head or neck muscle tension
- Stress (which may either cause or worsen TMD symptoms)
- Poor-fitting dentures
- Habits like biting nails, pens, or pencils
Due to the variety of possible causes, diagnosing TMD can be challenging. The best way to understand the cause of your jaw pain is to schedule an appointment with us. We’ll help you pinpoint the issue and recommend a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Headaches have many potential causes, and determining if TMD is the source requires a physical examination. We can help assess whether your headaches are related to jaw tension or TMJ disorder and provide the appropriate treatment options.
Most cases of TMJ pain can be effectively managed with non-invasive treatments and therapies. Surgery is rarely necessary and is typically considered only for severe cases where other treatments have not provided relief. We prioritize your health and will always present you with the safest and most effective treatment options first. You will be in control of your treatment decisions, and we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
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