TMJ Treatment In Scarborough

TMJ TREATMENT IN SCARBOROUGH

What is TMJ Treatment?

TMJ treatment, or temporomandibular joint treatment, involves managing issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ describes a series of conditions that is further characterized by the dysfunction of the muscles located in the jaw and surrounding areas. It could be challenging to determine the accurate source of the symptoms but the symptoms can be treated effectively by an orthodontist.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can manifest in various symptoms, including:

Jaw pain or tenderness
Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
Jaw muscle stiffness
Jaw locking
Ear pain
Headaches
Clicking or popping sounds
Changes in bite alignment
Facial swelling
Dizziness or vertigo

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough diagnosis and appropriate management. If you need a consultation right away, contact BK Dental today.

Popular Services

Working Hours

Mon - Fri

09:00 to 06:00

Saturday

09:00 to 04:00

Sunday

Closed

Get Started:

How to treat TMJ permanently?

Treating TMJ disorder permanently can be complex and may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. While there is no single guaranteed permanent solution for everyone, several approaches can help manage symptoms and improve long-term outcomes:

01. TMJ Solution

Begin with a professional evaluation by consulting a healthcare professional, such as a dentist, oral surgeon, or TMJ specialist, for a comprehensive assessment. We can assess your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and devise a personalized treatment plan.

02. Self-Care Techniques

Many cases of TMJ disorder respond well to conservative treatments, including: Self-care techniques: Applying ice packs, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding hard or chewy foods can alleviate symptoms. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy: Jaw exercises, stretches, and massage techniques can enhance jaw mobility and reduce muscle tension. Splints or mouthguards: Custom-fitted oral appliances can stabilize the jaw joint and prevent teeth grinding or clenching, which may contribute to TMJ symptoms.

03. Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle modifications such as: Stress management: Learning stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or counseling can minimize jaw clenching and tension. Dietary adjustments: Avoiding hard, chewy, or excessively crunchy foods can lessen strain on the jaw joint. Posture correction: Maintaining good posture, especially when sitting or working at a computer, can alleviate strain on the neck and jaw muscles.

04. Dental Interventions

Dental interventions may be necessary in some cases, including: Orthodontic treatment: Correcting bite misalignment or malocclusion through braces or other orthodontic appliances can relieve TMJ symptoms. Restorative dentistry: Dental procedures like crowns, bridges, or dental implants may restore proper bite alignment and function.

05. For Severe Or Persistent Cases

For severe or persistent cases of TMJ disorder unresponsive to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options may include: Arthrocentesis: A minimally invasive procedure, including the insertion of needles into the joint space to irrigate and flush out debris or inflammatory substances. Arthroscopy: A surgical technique using a small camera and specialized instruments to diagnose and treat TMJ problems through small incisions. Open joint surgery: In rare cases, open surgery may be indispensable to repair or replace damaged joint structures.

It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. Regular follow-up visits and ongoing management are often necessary to maintain symptom relief and optimize long-term outcomes.

Things that make TMJ worse?

Whether your jaw feels sore or painful because of TMJ, avoiding things that make it worse is key to managing your condition and avoiding flare-ups. These are:

Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, especially during sleep.
Foods that require extensive chewing, such as tough meats or gum.
Slouching or maintaining improper posture, especially when sitting for extended periods.
Emotional stress and anxiety
Activities that involve extensive or repetitive jaw movements, such as prolonged talking, singing, or yawning excessively.
Inadequate sleep or sleeping in positions that place pressure on the jaw joint.
Habitually chewing on objects like pens, pencils, or fingernails.
Some individuals may unknowingly clench their teeth during physical activities like weightlifting or intense workouts.
Dental issues such as malocclusion or misaligned teeth.
Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Other Services

Dental Services for Your Smile

Our dental office in Scarborough offers top-notch dental services to enhance your oral health and beauty. Visiting a dentist regularly is very important in maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being.

CBCT

Crowns And Bridges

Restorative Dentistry

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Root Canal Treatment

Teeth Whitening

Contact Us Today

Identifying and avoiding these aggravating factors, along with implementing appropriate treatment and self-care strategies, can help manage TMJ symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe TMJ symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.

At BK Dental, we prioritize a conservative approach to TMJ treatment, reserving surgical options for cases that do not respond to non-invasive therapies. Trust our oral surgeons to guide you towards the most suitable and effective TMD treatment plan. Contact our office today for a consultation.

FAQs

What is TMJ disorder, and what are its common symptoms?

TMJ disorder refers to issues with the temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull. Common symptoms include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing, a clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth, and sometimes even lockjaw.

What causes TMJ disorders?

The causes of TMJ disorders can vary widely; they may include arthritis, jaw injury, excessive gum chewing, genetic predisposition, or stress-related habits like teeth grinding (bruxism). Identifying the specific cause can help tailor the most effective treatment.

How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?

TMJ disorders are diagnosed through a combination of dental exams, jaw function tests, and medical history analysis. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may also be used to assess the condition of the jaw and joint.

What treatments are available for TMJ disorder at BK Dental in Scarborough?

Treatment options at BK Dental range from non-invasive therapies like physical therapy and mouthguards to relieve pressure and pain, to more advanced treatments like dental corrections or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

How effective is TMJ treatment, and how long does it take to see results?

The effectiveness of TMJ treatment can vary based on the underlying cause and the treatment method used. Many patients experience significant relief after a few weeks of consistent treatment, but complex cases may require longer to manage.

Can TMJ disorders be prevented?

While not all TMJ disorders can be prevented, minimizing risk factors such as reducing stress, avoiding excessive jaw movements, and treating teeth grinding can help. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for early detection and preventive care.

TMJ Treatment In Scarborough