How can your dentist help your jaw pain?
Do you have chronic jaw pain? You might have TMJ disorder. It is not only painful, it can also make everyday things like chewing and sleeping harder. We treat TMJ disorder as part of our practice, and the first step is understanding it.
We partner with The Jaw & Spine Centre
Yonge & Front Dental partners with The Jaw & Spine Centre for TMJ care. If you have jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches or neck discomfort, book an appointment and together we will design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Learn more at thejawspinedoctor.com.
What is TMJ disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw to your skull. When it slides abnormally or locks, it can cause:
- Pain in the face, jaw joint, neck, shoulders or ears
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide
- A jaw that gets stuck open or closed
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Tired facial muscles and difficulty chewing
- Swelling on one or both sides of the face
What causes TMJ disorder?
The exact cause is not always clear, but these can cause or contribute to it:
- Injuries to the jaw
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Arthritis in the joint
- Stress
Treatment with night guards
A custom night guard is a safe and effective treatment. Made from an impression of your teeth, it holds your jaw in a relaxed position while you sleep.
Treatment with dental work
Sometimes evening out the pressure on your teeth is enough to relieve symptoms, especially if you have missing teeth. Braces can also help by improving the alignment of your teeth and jaw.
Treatment with medication
After diagnosis, medication can help. Muscle relaxants ease clenching and grinding, and other medications can help you manage stress and pain.
Treatment with surgery
In more severe cases, orthognathic surgery can realign the jaw. It is done by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who works with your dentist on your treatment plan.
