Did you know that our dentists can help you correct jaw misalignment? If you are experiencing TMJ/TMD, we can help alleviate the pain and stress of the disorder. You do not have to live your life with TMJ pain. You can find relief in simple ways. That’s what we want to help you find at East Village Dental.
What Is TMJ?
You have two joints on either side of your mouth that connect your jawbone to your skull. These are called your temporomandibular joints, TMJ, or the jaw joint. These joints are right before your ears, and a small cartilage disk cushions the two bones. This helps them glide smoothly and allows you to chew and speak comfortably. When these joints become misaligned, we call it temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which can result in painful symptoms.
What Is Temporomandibular Joint (TMD)?
TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. You may be suffering from TMD if you are experiencing:
- Jaw pain.
- Chronic pain in the area near your ear.
- Jaw locking.
- A clicking or popping sound in your jaw.
- Pain or swelling in the muscles on the side of your face.
TMD describes a group of conditions characterized by the pain of TMJ and the muscles surrounding it.
What Causes TMD?
There can be any number of reasons you are dealing with TMD, also known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction. However, some of the most common possible causes include:
- Stress.
- Arthritis in the TMJ.
- Dislocation of the ball and socket.
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth.
- Injury to the jaw, joint, or head and neck muscles.
- Dislocation of upper and lower jaws during growth and development.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Pain?
There are many TMJ symptoms of temporomandibular disorder, but the most common include:
- Depression.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Chronic jaw pain.
- Aching facial pain.
- Ringing in your ears.
- Worn or cracked teeth.
- Sensitive or sore teeth.
- Headaches or migraines.
- Pain while chewing or speaking.
- Limited jaw movement (locked jaw).
- Sharp pain in your neck and shoulders.
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you open and close your mouth.
How To Treat TMJ Disorders with Physical Therapy?
Many people suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders every year. The good news is that most people can manage the pain with nonsurgical treatments. Most TMJ disorders can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, ice, and heat. However, depending on your specific situation, our dentists might also recommend other treatments to help relieve tooth grinding or bruxism. Our goal is to relax your muscles for long-term relief of TMJ-related pain.
The Good News
Some TMD cases can resolve themselves with the help of remedies you can first try at home. We can give you further instructions on approaching TMD when you visit our office for an appointment. If that doesn’t work, our Calgary dentists will gladly provide treatment.
Dental Solutions at East Village Dental
Our dentists may also recommend using a mouth guard that fits both the upper and lower teeth to help keep your jaw in place, especially while sleeping. In severe cases, they may even recommend physical therapy to help better cope with the stress and pain of TMD. In some severe cases, our dentists might suggest dental work to get the most long-lasting results for your future. These procedures could include:
- Orthodontics.
- Placing Crowns.
- Placing Bridges.
- She is replacing missing teeth.
Our dentists will work with you to find the best treatment for your smile needs. Rest assured that our expert team will do everything possible to provide the proper recommendations. You will soon be on your way to a comfortable and life-changing recovery!
Why Choose Us?
At East Village Dental, we recognize that every case of TMJ disorder is different. Our dental team is dedicated to analyzing your situation and helping create a course of treatment that will bring you the best results. We believe in offering the most convenient yet effective procedures possible to get you the relief you deserve. With our modern spa-like environment, we strive to make your dental visits as relaxing and pleasant as possible. While you’re at our clinic, you can expect personalized attention from all our staff members.
Find Your Pain-Relief Today
Set an appointment with us if you think you have TMD.We are happy to help get you back to living without constant or severe pain.