If you’ve ever experienced aching pain or soreness in your jaw, face, or head, you may be dealing with TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your teeth and jaws and allows you to talk, chew, and swallow. However, when there’s an issue with this joint, it can lead to TMJ problems—commonly known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
At Dentistry Thirty Two in Maple Ridge, we have expertise in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders to help you regain comfort and improve your oral health. Whether you’re experiencing jaw pain, difficulty with opening and closing your mouth, or persistent pain clicking in your jaw, our comprehensive TMJ treatment options can provide relief and prevent long-term damage.
What Is TMJ, and How Do You Know If You Have TMJ Problems?
The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to the bones of your skull, allowing the smooth movement of your jaw joints. However, when this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or damaged, it can result in TMJ problems, leading to symptoms like:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Headaches or migraines
- Clicking or popping sounds while moving the jaw
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth wide
- Facial pains or discomfort around the ear
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking professional care is essential. TMJ disorders can worsen over time, impacting your ability to eat and speak comfortably. At Dentistry Thirty Two, our team offers personalized TMJ treatment plans to help reduce TMJ pain and improve your quality of life.
TMJ Treatment at Dentistry Thirty Two
Our clinic in Maple Ridge offers various options for treating TMJ disorders based on the severity of your condition. During your consultation, our skilled dental team will carefully assess your jaw joints, your bite alignment, and the overall function of your teeth and jaws. From there, we’ll develop a treatment plan that may include:
Custom Mouthguards or Splints
A common and effective approach for managing TMJ pain is through the use of custom-made oral appliances like mouthguards or splints. These devices help to reposition the jaw and reduce the ongoing wear and strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), providing relief from pain and discomfort.
Bite Adjustment
Misaligned bites can contribute to TMJ problems. Our team may recommend adjusting your bite to ensure that your teeth and jaws are in proper aligment, helping to relieve the pressure on your jaw joints.
Muscle Relaxation and Therapy
In some cases, tension in the jaw muscles can exacerbate TMJ pain. We may recommend relaxation techniques or therapy to reduce chronic tension and improve the function of your jaw joints.
Home Practices for Managing TMJ Pain
In addition to professional TMJ treatment, there are several practices you can adopt at home to help manage temporomandibular disorders:
- Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve the mobility of the temporomandibular joint and reduce stiffness.
- Apply Heat or Cold Packs: Alternating between warm and cold compresses on the affected area can help soothe inflammation and reduce pain and discomfort.
- Avoid Overusing the Jaw: Eating soft foods and avoiding chewy or hard foods can help prevent excessive strain on your jaw joints.
- Stress Management: Since stress seems to contribute to TMJ problems, finding ways to manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy can be helpful in preventing flare-ups.
Long-Term Relief with Dentistry Thirty Two
At Dentistry Thirty Two, our goal is to help you achieve long-term relief from TMJ pain. Our experienced team in Maple Ridge is dedicated to providing effective TMJ treatment options to restore comfort and improve oral health.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorders, don’t wait to seek care. Contact Dentistry Thirty Two today to schedule an initial appointment and start your journey toward pain-free living.