
Jaw Pain Is Not Normal.
Frequent jaw discomfort might seem ordinary, but it’s not. Persistent jaw pain can signal Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), a condition affecting one or both Temporomandibular Joints (TMJs), which enable lower jaw movement. Misalignment or disease in these joints can cause inflammation, leading to pain and related symptoms.
Signs of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD):
- Headaches
- Ear pain or sensitivity near the ear
- Facial or jaw discomfort
- Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw
- Difficulty with chewing, yawning, or opening the mouth
How Do We Diagnose And Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
TMD evaluation begins with a detailed clinical examination of your facial structure, jaw alignment, bite, joints, and teeth. During the visit, we check for discomfort, sensitivity, or any clicking or popping sounds when moving your mouth, chewing, or swallowing. If TMD is diagnosed, the first step often involves recommending a bite splint or night guard.
Treatment and Relief
We provide custom-designed bite splints, tailored to fit your upper and/or lower teeth. These plastic devices help reduce grinding and clenching, common contributors to TMD, while improving jaw alignment to ease tension in the surrounding area.
Alternative Treatment Options
If your symptoms arise from misaligned teeth or gaps, orthodontic care or restorative dentistry may be suggested. For uneven biting pressure affecting the TMJ, reshaping specific teeth might help distribute the force more 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 stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which connects your jaw to the skull. When this joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, the condition is referred to as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD.
TMD symptoms may include tenderness or pain near the ear, jaw joint, or jaw muscles, as well as discomfort in the face or temples. Additional signs include difficulty opening or closing your mouth and noises like clicking, popping, grinding, or crunching when chewing or yawning. TMD is also associated with neck pain and headaches.
TMD can develop from various factors, such as jaw injuries, arthritis in the joint, or habits like teeth grinding (bruxism). Muscle tension in the neck and head, stress, and poor-fitting dentures may also contribute. Behavioural habits like biting nails or pens can worsen the condition. Given these diverse causes, diagnosing TMD often requires a professional evaluation. Booking an appointment is the best way to address jaw pain symptoms.
Headaches can have many sources, and determining their cause requires a thorough physical assessment by a doctor.
Most TMJ issues can be addressed with non-invasive therapies, and surgery is rarely necessary. We value your well-being and will openly discuss all potential treatment options, starting with the least invasive methods. Ultimately, the decision on the next steps is yours to make.
