Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is the inflammation of the soft joint between your lower jaw and skull. Patients suffering from TMD can experience headaches, popping and clicking sounds in their jaw, and difficulties moving their jaw.
TMJ Treatment Near You
Our dentist will be the TMD screening by asking the following questions:
- Do you hear popping or clicking sounds in your jaw?
- Do you grind your teeth?
- Do you find it challenging to move your jaw?
These three questions will help us identify the cause of your TMD to develop an effective treatment plan.
The symptoms of TMD often overlap with the symptoms of sleep bruxism (clenching and grinding your teeth in your sleep). Symptoms of sleep bruxism include increased tooth sensitivity, toothaches, damaged dental work, and worn enamel. The sleep bruxism symptoms that coincide with TMD include headaches, difficulties moving your jaw, fatigue, and jaw, neck, and face pain.
If you’re looking to receive TMJ treatment near you, there are two stages. The first stage is wearing a mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding. Only custom mouthguards from your dentist are effective in treating TMD. The second stage of treatment is to reshape the biting surfaces of your teeth. If your symptoms persist after both stages of treatment, your dentist may recommend jaw surgery or orthodontics you can ask what things that make tmj worse & their prevention.
Key Points About TMJ Treatment
- Sleep bruxism can also be treated by wearing a customized mouthguard.
- Treatment for TMJ and sleep bruxism can involve doctors and dentists. Remember to mention any symptoms affecting your jaw, head, face, sleep, and neck during your dentist appointment.
Looking for TMJ therapy near you? Our office offers TMJ treatment in Okotoks, AB, to restore your jaw’s functionality.