TMJ Treatment
Do You Suffer with TMJ Pain?
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a highly complex, yet important joint that links your head, neck, and jaw to each other. It is the ball and socket joint located just in front of your ears, on either side of your head, and is responsible for enabling you to talk, eat, and laugh.
Temporomandibular Joint disorder (TMD) is the term used to describe an incorrect alignment of your teeth and jaw. When this occurs, patients may experience a number of painful and uncomfortable issues, including recurring headaches and migraines, as well as facial, neck and shoulder pain. Additionally, those affected may experience limited jaw movement or even a clicking sound when they eat, yawn and speak.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
There are a number of factors which can contribute to a misaligned bite and jaw. These include:
- Missing teeth causing adjacent and opposing teeth to move out of alignment
- Clenching and grinding teeth (Bruxism)
- Repetitive strain on the jaw muscles (usually caused by stress)
- A jaw fracture or dislocation caused by an accident or sport injury
- Degenerative bone disorders such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Symptoms Often Include:
- Popping, clicking or locking of the jaw
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Abnormal tooth wear
If an abnormality is present in the jaw or the bite of your teeth, it can cause symptoms of TMJ disorder to develop. We will assess the function of your TMJ during your exam to determine whether or not it is functioning properly.
Several types of TMJ disorders can be addressed through non-surgical methods, such as bite splint therapy or orthodontics.
How Can We Help?
If you have any of the symptoms of TMJ and you’re not sure where to turn, start with a dental examination. Please don’t suffer needlessly in silence. Give Dentist WA Canning Vale a call so we can help you through the pain.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
