Jaw Pain Is Not Normal
Regular jaw pain may signal TMD (temporomandibular disorder) affecting your TMJs (temporomandibular joints). Misalignment or disease in these joints causes inflammation, leading to pain and other symptoms.
What are the signs of TMJ disorder (TMD)?
- Headaches or migraines
- Earaches and tenderness around the ear
- Pain or discomfort in the face or jaw
- Muscle soreness in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds from the jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning, or opening the mouth fully
How Do We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
The first step in treating TMD is a thorough clinical exam, where we assess your face, jaw, bite, joints, and teeth. We’ll check for any pain, tenderness, or abnormal sounds, such as clicking or popping, when you open or close your mouth, swallow, or chew. If TMD is diagnosed, we often recommend a bite splint or night guard as an initial treatment to help relieve symptoms.
Treatment and Relief
We offer bite splints as part of our treatment plan. These custom-made plastic mouthpieces are designed to fit over your upper and/or lower teeth. Bite splints help prevent grinding and clenching, which can aggravate TMD. Additionally, they work to realign the jaw, reducing stress on the surrounding muscles and joints for relief
Alternative Treatment Options
If your symptoms are caused by a misaligned bite or missing teeth, orthodontic treatment or restorative dental procedures may be recommended. In cases where uneven bite pressure is straining the TMJs, we might suggest reshaping specific teeth to help balance and evenly distribute the bite force.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Winner Of The Three Best Rated Award
Dr. Alwash is the winner of the 3 Best Rated award for Best Dentists in Markham.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ stands for the Temporomandibular Joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it is referred to as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).
Common symptoms of TMD include pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ear, as well as discomfort in the muscles of the jaw, temples, or neck. Other signs include difficulty opening or closing your mouth, along with sounds like clicking, popping, or grinding when you chew, yawn, or speak. TMD may also cause headaches or neck pain.
TMD can result from a variety of factors, such as jaw injuries or conditions like arthritis. Additional causes may include bruxism (tooth clenching or grinding), muscle tension in the head or neck, and stress. While stress may contribute to TMD, it’s unclear whether it directly causes the disorder or is a consequence of it. Other potential triggers include poorly fitting dentures and habits like nail-biting or chewing on pens. Because there are many possible causes, diagnosing TMD can be complex. To get a clear understanding of your symptoms, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a professional.
Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, so it’s difficult for a doctor to pinpoint the exact cause without a thorough physical exam. If you suspect TMD is contributing to your headaches, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.
In most cases, TMJ pain can be managed with non-invasive treatments and therapies. Surgery is only considered in very rare situations. We prioritize your well-being, which is why we will explore the safest and most effective options first, always providing you with clear choices and letting you make the final decision about your care.
What Our Patients Are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Comfortable and COVID-19 Safe Experience
Fillings Aren't So Bad
First Time Appointment Success
