TMJ/TMD/Jaw Pain/Jaw Misalignment
The temporomandibular joint, abbreviated TMJ, is a crucial and complex hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, enabling you to open and close your mouth to talk, speak, chew and yawn, among others. If your TMJ is out of balance, you may experience pain and discomfort in the form of jaw pain, headaches, nausea, limited range of motion, and muscle soreness. This condition is referred to as temporomandibular disorder or TMD.
Tri-Cities Dental Specialists is a leading dental office that provides personalized treatment for temporomandibular disorder and jaw pain near you. We take time to carefully investigate the cause of imbalance so as to provide an appropriate treatment for long-lasting relief.
What Causes Temporomandibular Disorder/TMD?
Science and research have yet to pinpoint the exact cause of TMD. However, in many cases, it is thought that TMD often occurs if the shock-absorbing cartilage component of the joint slips out of place. This may be triggered by numerous factors, including injury or excessive teeth grinding.
Other factors that can increase your risk of developing TMD include jaw misalignment and arthritis.
Common signs of TMD include:
- Locked jaw
- Headaches
- Clicking, grating, or popping sounds when opening and closing your jaw
- Pain that spreads to the face, shoulder, neck, or back
- Dizziness
- A change in your bite, i.e., a difference in the way your upper and lower teeth fit together
- Sudden onset of teeth sensitivity
Should you note any of these symptoms, reach out to our dental specialists in Coquitlam, BC, for a comprehensive evaluation.
Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Disorder
Our dentists near you rely on their extensive experience and advanced dental technology to get to the root cause of your pain. We utilize powerful diagnostic and imaging equipment to gather in-depth insights into your jaw’s health. After a thorough evaluation, our dentists recommend the treatment suited to your needs.
Some common interventions for temporomandibular disorders include:
- Nightguards to prevent tooth grinding
- Orthodontic treatment to improve your bite
- Diet changes to encourage relaxation of your jaws
- Medication
- Relaxation techniques and stress management
If more conservative treatments fail to deliver intended results, our dental specialists may recommend surgery as a last resort.
Are you experiencing TMD symptoms? You can overcome pain and restore your well-being by choosing Tri-Cities Dental Specialists today. Get in touch with us today to begin your TMD treatment in Coquitlam, BC.