TMJ or Tempo-Mandibular Joint, is your jaw joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is injured or damaged, it can lead to pain, limited opening, clicking and popping, and other issues, often referred to as TMJ Syndrome or TMD (Temporo-Mandibular Disorder).
Signs and Symptoms of TMD
Signs and symptoms of TMD include:
- pain the your jaw
- clicking and/or popping in the jaw joint
- headaches
- stiffness in the jaw or surrounding muscles
- locking of jaw or limitation to how wide you can open
- pain in temple area
- ear pain and/or ringing in ear
Common TMJ Syndrome Treatments
Most common initial treatments to jaw problems include pain medications, massage, avoiding certain foods that can trigger pain (such as chewing gum), and nightguards. If the problem is not severe or caught early enough, these treatments are very often effective and can be used to manage minor TMJ issues.
When TMJ pain becomes chronic or severe
When your jaw joint becomes painful long-term or pain medication doesn’t seem to work for you, there are other things that can help heal or manage your condition. TMD can be complex and need a variety of treatments. There are many options depending on severity, disease progression, and your willingness to treat the disease.
If your TMJ pain is severe and you have not been able to find a solution, call us for a consultation.
If you have questions about TMJ pain or your specific situation, get in touch with TMJ dentist in Oakville Dr. Agatha Bis by calling 905-338-6684 or filling out the form below.