TMJ Treatment
TMJ Disorders – Diagnosis and Treatment
TMJ Treatment Canley Heights
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or simply TMJ/TMD, is a pain in the jaw joint and muscles that can be caused by several medical problems.
TMJ disorders can cause pain in the head, neck, face, and ears.
One may also experience a jaw that is locked in position or difficult to open, biting problems, and jaw clicking or popping sounds when biting.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Pain or tenderness in one or both jaws
- Pain in and around your ear
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Facial pain
- Jaw joint locking, making it hard to open or close your mouth
TMJ problems can also cause a jaw clicking or grating feeling when opening your mouth or chewing.
If there’s no pain or restriction of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably won’t need TMJ treatment.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
Causes of TMJ disorders are as follows:
- Arthritis
- Jaw dislocation
- Facial injury
- Improper tooth and jaw alignment
- Stress and teeth grinding
Treatment for TMJ Problems
While there is no cure for TMJ disorders, there are different treatments that may significantly reduce your symptoms.
Your Canley Heights dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
Medication
Get rid of muscle spasm and pain by applying moist heat or taking medications, like muscle relaxants, aspirin, other over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Wear protective appliances
This reduces the negative effects of tooth clenching and grinding by wearing a protective nightguard or splint.
Relax
Relaxation techniques may help control muscle tension in the jaw. Your Canley Heights dentist may suggest you seek training or counselling to help eliminate stress.
TMJ Treatment in Canley Heights
If you have the symptoms mentioned above or suspect you have TMJ problems, please call us and schedule an appointment.
Visit your Canley Heights dentist today!
To know more about our TMJ treatments in Canley Heights, please call us on (02) 9199 9678 or book your appointment online.
We are located at 1/229 Canley Vale Road in Canley Heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to prevent TMJ disorders?
- If you have occasional episodes of jaw pain, avoid chewing gum or biting on hard objects, like pens or fingernails.
- Avoid eating hard or chewy foods. Support your lower jaw with your hand when yawning.
- Avoid taking large bites when eating.
- Regularly massage your jaw, cheeks, and temple muscles.
- Apply moist heat if you feel spasms.
- Maintain a good sleeping posture with neck support.
- Do not put your phone between your shoulder and neck when taking calls.
- See your Canley Heights dentist if you grind your teeth at night or often find yourself clenching your jaw.