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For some people, oral pain comes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease. But for others, jaw problems can be the source of significant discomfort. If you’ve been suffering from jaw pain, Grace Family Dental is here to help using TMJ/TMD therapy.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is the name given to several problems associated with jaw movement and pain in and around the jaw joints. You may also hear TMD called TMJ or TM problems. The jaw joints, or temporomandibular (TMI) joints, connect the lower jawbone (mandible) to the skull. If you often experience a clicking or popping sound when opening and closing your mouth, you might have TMD. When your teeth are misaligned, or there is an improper bite position, there are an added strain on the head and neck muscles, joints, and teeth. Over time, this can lead to symptoms like chronic headaches, muscle spasms, jaw pain, and soreness. This can also lead to neck and back issues as your body tries to compensate.
TMD disorders are fairly common. Usually, the most significant symptom of TMD, and certainly the most commonly reported one, is frequent headaches and migraines. Other symptoms can include neck and shoulder pain, stiffness, ear pain, locked jaw and jaw pain, bite problems, and in some cases, tooth sensitivity.
Our goal is to alleviate any pain you might be experiencing and ensure that you have the proper protection for their teeth. If you are dealing with any of the above symptoms, we recommend that you call Grace Family Dental today to schedule an appointment for a complete TMJ/TMD Therapy assessment with our experienced dental team.
Aside from treating the root cause, the main purpose of TMJ/TMD therapy is to make the jaw and its associated structures function normally so we can eliminate the associated pain and discomfort. It’s important to identify the problem first before any treatment is considered.
Once your TMD is diagnosed, the first step in dental treatment will often be a custom night guard or splint. Before more invasive solutions are considered, it’s important first to see whether realigning the jaw, as well as preventing jaw clenching, will alleviate the symptoms. This custom-fit hard plastic dental device is inserted over a patient’s upper and/or lower teeth that helps realign the jaw and alleviate the pain associated with TMJ, along with protecting your teeth. Nightguards have been shown to provide relief of TMJ symptoms for many sufferers, and they are usually the first attempt at treatment. Your dentist can then determine if they need to dig a little deeper into an alternative treatment plan.
At Grace Family Dental, the goal of our Orthodontic Services is to straighten your teeth, restore form and to give you back full function as well as enhance your smile! We ask that you book an appointment today if you are looking for any orthodontic treatment!
Amazing dental office with a knowledgeable and warm staff. For years I travelled back into North Calgary fearing I'd never find a local dentist who was as good. I tried them after their office opened near my home and I am very happy to say I've found my next family dentist!
