TMJ

TMJ at Gisborne, Macedon & Riddells Creek

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and is the hinge where your jawbone connects to your skull. There is a joint on each side of your jaw and when a TMJ disorder strikes, pain can ensue along with issues in the muscles that control movement of your jaw.

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TMJ at Gisborne, Macedon & Riddells Creek

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and is the hinge where your jawbone connects to your skull. There is a joint on each side of your jaw and when a TMJ disorder strikes, pain can ensue along with issues in the muscles that control movement of your jaw.

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TMJ Disorders

When dentists and doctors refer to the TMJ, they are referring to the entire area on the sides of your jaw including the mandible, which is the lower jawbone, the temporal bone that is part of the skull connected to the jawbone, the cheekbone and all of the muscles, tendons, and nerves that are connected to the area. Disorders of the TMJ can cause TMD, which is short for temporomandibular dysfunction.

TMJ syndrome refers to any disorder of this area and may affect the bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. It may be a result of improper bite, trauma, arthritis, or everyday wear and can result in problems like chronic or spastic pain in the area. Early indications that you have TMJ disorder may include:

Headache
Earache or ear pain
Jaw pain
A clicking sound when talking or chewing

Our dentists are skilled at diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders and are ready to help you find relief.

TMJ Disorders

When dentists and doctors refer to the TMJ, they are referring to the entire area on the sides of your jaw including the mandible, which is the lower jawbone, the temporal bone that is part of the skull connected to the jawbone, the cheekbone and all of the muscles, tendons, and nerves that are connected to the area. Disorders of the TMJ can cause TMD, which is short for temporomandibular dysfunction.

TMJ syndrome refers to any disorder of this area and may affect the bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. It may be a result of improper bite, trauma, arthritis, or everyday wear and can result in problems like chronic or spastic pain in the area. Early indications that you have TMJ disorder may include:

Headache
Earache or ear pain
Jaw pain
A clicking sound when talking or chewing

Our dentists are skilled at diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders and are ready to help you find relief.

The Causes of TMJ Disorder

There are many reasons why one might be afflicted with TMJ disorder including misalignment, degraded joint cushion, or muscle spasms because of misalignment. The following are more situations that may lead to TMJ disorder:

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Trauma such as whiplash

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Teeth clenching

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Blow to the head or face

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Teeth grinding or bruxism

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Arthritis

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Jaw misalignment that interferes with bite

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Stress that leads to teeth grinding, clenching, and muscle spasms

TMJ disorder can interfere with your quality of life as it can make eating, talking, and laughing uncomfortable. It can also lead to worse problems like inflammation and chronic pain. Women between ages 20-40 years are most likely to have this disorder, though there is no apparent reason why.

TMJ Disorder Symptoms

The symptoms of TMJ disorder are very diversified as the disorder can affect muscles, bones, teeth, and anything connected to these. Pain may feel specifically located or may radiate out into the head, shoulders, or neck area. But pain is not the only symptom.

The muscles and bones are located in the facial area as well and may include problems with the sinuses or ear canal. Issues in these areas can cause dizziness, ear ringing, and even a burning sensation. Sometimes misalignment of the jaw can result in teeth not fitting together properly, which can exacerbate the discomfort and lead to other issues like damaged or loose teeth. Some more symptoms to watch for include the following:

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Headache

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Temporal pain

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Pain in jawbone

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Earaches or ear pain

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Facial swelling

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Dizziness

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Locking of the jaw joint

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Ringing in the ear or tinnitus

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Ear popping

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Clicking sound with jaw movement

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Grating sound with jaw movement

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Pain and stiffness in jaw area

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Sudden feeling that the jaw and/or teeth have been misplaced

If you feel these symptoms, try over-the-counter pain killers or an ice pack for relief. If the problems are recurring, treatment might help heal the root cause of the problem. Our dentists at The Dental House in Gisborne, Macedon & Riddells Creek can treat TMJ disorders to resolve pain and correct any alignment issues.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorder

Our experienced dentists can diagnose TMJ disorder and find the reason behind it to better customize a treatment path for your situation. The following is what you can expect when you come to The Dental House at Gisborne:

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You will receive a dental exam with a full set of x-rays

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The dentist may use 3D imaging to reveal bone and bite issues

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The dentist will observe and measure your jaw position and movement

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We will do a full health evaluation so your health history can be considered

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Some patients may be referred for an MRI to reveal joint problems

A combination of diagnostic tests will help the dentist form a complete diagnosis and cause for your TMJ disorder, which will help create the best treatment plan for your situation. Our dentists are very skilled at forming a diagnosis and experienced in treating TMJ disorder so you can feel confident you will find relief with us.

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Our Happy Patient

Just had the most thorough teeth clean any dentist has given me. Thank you! The staff are super caring and friendly also. Will recommend to everyone.

Bianca S.

TMJ Disorder Treatment Options

In some cases, the problem may be corrected with a temporary diet change and stress management techniques. Other issues may require adjustments to dental prosthesis such as crowns or bridges while others might benefit with Cosmetic Injectable to relax the nerves and calm muscle spasms. In any case, your dentist will discuss all options with you and help you with both immediate relief and long-term care.

Treatment varies depending on the cause or source of the disorder. Some of the common treatments may include the following or a combination of the following:

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Over-the-counter pain medication to help reduce inflammation

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Prescription pain medication for continued muscle relaxation, which will help reduce inflammation

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Your dentist may recommend certain stress reduction methods

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Teeth reshaping or repair may help improve bite

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Teeth alignment to improve bite

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A mouth appliance may be prescribed to reduce teeth grinding or bruxism

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While we agree that you can’t put a price on good health (especially when it comes to your teeth), we understand the reality of family budgets. That’s why we offer flexible treatment options and family-affordable pricing. You might say the only thing average about Dental House is our prices.

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Our Happy Patient

Not just any old dental clinic, made to feel right at Home as soon as I walked in the door. Friendly and caring team and love the color purple throughout!

Scott S.

Call Today for TMJ Disorder Relief

Don’t let dental problems and pain interfere with your quality of life. Call today and schedule a dental exam and evaluation with us. Our caring team of dental professionals will find the best treatment to bring you relief so you can enjoy less pain, less stress, and more comfort.

Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.

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