TMJ/TMD Treatments in Howick
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-like joint on either side of your jaw, responsible for opening and closing your mouth. When your joint is overused or imbalanced, it can lead to a painful condition known as temporomandibular disorder or TMD.
TMD symptoms may cause joint pain and stiffness, limited opening and closing, popping or clicking inside the joint, and even headaches. Due to the proximity to your ears, some people with TMJ disorder also experience symptoms mimicking ear infections or ear pain. Others may also notice that they are grinding their teeth at night (a condition called bruxism), which can contribute to their condition.
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Managing TMD Symptoms
Depending on the cause of your TMD, lifestyle modifications can ease symptoms. For example, taking smaller bites of food or eating soft textures. Try to avoid biting into harder food or opening your mouth wide, like when you bite into an apple. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also ease temporary muscle tension and discomfort.
Our dentist, Dr Pulkit, will also screen you for signs of bruxism, which may include flat, worn or chipped teeth in addition to your TMJ discomfort.
How to Treat TMD
When TMD symptoms interfere with daily activities or cause ongoing pain, Dr Pulkit typically recommends a custom nightguard. These special preventative appliances limit joint tension and prevent additional tooth wear caused by bruxism.
TMJ Exams
If you experience frequent TMJ pain, teeth grinding, headaches or sore jaws, contact A+ Dentists today. Dr Pulkit will evaluate your jaw joints and discuss other risk factors to determine an appropriate diagnosis and the best treatment options. Our digital scanning technology also allows us to assess the structure of your joint and bite alignment to determine if more advanced measures are required.
Contact us today to reserve your next dental exam and TMJ evaluation.
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