TMJ & TMD Treatment in Yorkville, Toronto
If you suffer from TMJ or TMD, visit us at The Accolade Dental Centre in Yorkville. We offer treatment services to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ and TMD.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complicated joints in the body. Located just in front of your ears, it can rotate, move backwards and forwards, and side to side. It lets you chew, yawn, speak and swallow. Problems, including pain or tenderness, with the TMJ can be caused by temporomandibular joint disease (TMD).
What are the symptoms of TMJ disease?
- Pain or tenderness around the TMJ area – in and around the ear, the jaw joint or the muscles in your jaw face or temples.
- Problems opening or closing your mouth
- A clicking, grinding, popping or crunching noise when you chew, talk, yawn or open your mouth
- TMD can also be linked to headaches and neck pain.
If you have any of these symptoms of TMD, talk to your doctor and your dentist.
What causes TMD?
Most cases of TMD are caused by a combination of factors, including injuries or joint diseases like arthritis. It is believed that bruxism (jaw clenching and teeth grinding) and neck muscle tension can make symptoms worse.
How can my Dentist help my TMD symptoms?
After a thorough exam, which may include x-rays, your dentist may be able to suggest a plan to help treat the symptoms of TMJ pain and disease.
They may suggest wearing a mouth guard at night that is designed to help your jaw joints and muscles relax while you are sleeping.
It’s made of a clear plastic and fits over your teeth so you bite the mouth guard and not your teeth.
This not only protects your teeth from the effects of bruxism and jaw clenching, but also can help your muscles relax and prevent further tension.
