TMJ/TMD Treatment Near You
Have you been looking for TMJ/TMD relief in Edmonton? Do you suffer from chronic headaches or facial pain? It’s possible that an improper bite or issues with your temporomandibular joint (also referred to as the TMJ or jaw joint) muscles in your head and neck are causing your pain. This is referred to as temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Rather than just masking the symptoms with pain medication, our Edmonton dentists take a comprehensive approach at Henday Dental to identify and address the root causes of TMJ disorders. We prioritize the restoration of optimal function and enhancement of overall well-being by addressing the factors in the jaw joint that contribute to pain.
What is a TMD?
The TMJ or jaw joint, is an intricate joint within the human body. The temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a results when its functionality is impaired, it can lead to substantial pain and discomfort, resulting in difficulties with consuming solid foods. TMJ pain can also manifest as severe headaches, which may be mistakenly diagnosed as migraines.
TMJ disorders can stem from various factors, including jaw injuries, teeth grinding (bruxism), misaligned teeth, misaligned bite due to previous dental work, or a combination thereof. At Henday Dental, our dentists are skilled in the field of neuromuscular dentistry, allowing them to design customized treatment plans that effectively address TMJ pain.
Symptoms of TMJ-D (TMJ-Disorder)
Some indications and manifestations of TMJ disorder can include:
- Discomfort or sensitivity in the jaw area and the muscles surrounding it
- Pain experienced in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
- Facial pain, such as aching or soreness in the facial muscles
- Aching pain sensed in or around the ear
- Challenges with chewing or severe discomfort during the chewing process
- Occasions where the joint locks, leading to difficulties in opening or closing the mouth
- Premature wear and tear on the upper and lower teeth from teeth grinding
- Jaw disorders associated with TMJ can also result in an audible clicking noise or a sensation of grinding when you open your mouth or eat.
If you experience no discomfort or restricted movement when your jaw clicks, it is likely unnecessary to seek treatment for a TMJ disorder.
How does dentistry treat temporomandibular joint dysfunction?
Our team provides TMD treatment in Edmonton by recognizing that oral health is not limited to just teeth – it encompasses the entire complex system of your face, jaws, and bite. A misaligned bite can lead to muscle tension in these areas, causing symptoms like teeth grinding and other temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms.
Additionally, trauma or injury to the jaw can result in increased muscle tension, as seen in cases of whiplash. We can provide TMD treatment near you through a comprehensive approach to dental health, we can identify and target the underlying causes of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) symptoms, including bruxism (teeth grinding), discomfort in the jaw muscles, neck pain, persistent pain, and muscle spasms.
Are you in search of TMJ/TMD treatment near you? Contact us to book a consultation and learn more about how we can help you free yourself from pain with TMJ/TMD treatment in Edmonton.
Frequently Asked Questions: TMD & TMJ Treatment
What is the difference between TMJ and TMD? The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is the actual hinge joint that connects your jaw to your skull. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to the pain, clicking, or dysfunction that occurs when this joint or the surrounding muscles aren’t working properly. At our North Edmonton dental clinic, we focus on identifying the root causes of TMD to provide long-term relief rather than just masking the symptoms.
What are the common symptoms of a TMJ disorder? Common signs include a clicking or popping sound when opening your mouth, jaw pain while chewing, persistent facial soreness, and frequent morning headaches or earaches. Some patients also experience “locking” of the jaw. If you notice these symptoms, visit our McConachie office for a professional evaluation to prevent further wear on your teeth and joint.
Can TMD cause migraines or neck pain? Absolutely. Because the jaw joint is closely connected to the muscles of the head and neck, a misaligned bite or jaw tension often leads to referred pain. Many North Edmonton patients find that their “migraines” or chronic neck stiffness are actually symptoms of a TMJ disorder that can be resolved through proper dental alignment and therapy.
Do you offer direct insurance billing for TMJ appliances? Yes. While some TMJ treatments are considered “major restorative” or “adjunctive” services, many Alberta insurance plans provide coverage for custom splints and orthotics. We offer direct billing from our North Edmonton office and will submit a pre-determination to your provider so you know your coverage details before starting treatment. Ask our Team about our interest-free payment plans to help you and your family receive the care that you deserve.
Is TMJ treatment permanent? Many patients experience significant, long-term relief through non-invasive therapies like custom appliances and lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is to stabilize your bite and reduce muscle tension so you can enjoy life without chronic pain. Regular follow-ups at our McConachie location ensure your treatment remains effective as your jaw health improves.
Ask our Team about our interest-free payment plans to help you and your family receive the care that you deserve.