Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) are a combination of problems related to your jaw joints which are very complex structures. If you have had symptoms like pain or a “clicking” sound, you’ll be glad to know that these problems are more easily diagnosed and treated than they were in the past.
TMJ symptoms occur when the jaw joints and the chewing muscles (muscles of mastication) do not work together correctly. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the name for each joint (right and left) that connects your jaw to your skull. Since some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions, early detection and treatment are important.
Very often, more than one treatment may be required to help resolve TMJ disorders completely, and most treatments take time to become effective. Schedule an appointment with our dentist near you to get the treatment you need.
Trouble With Your Jaw?
TMJ disorders can develop for many reasons. You might clench or grind your teeth, thereby tightening your jaw muscles and stressing your TM joint. You may have a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Injuries and arthritis can damage the joint directly or stretch or tear the muscle ligaments. As a result, the disc within the joint, which is made of cartilage and functions as the “cushion” of the jaw joint, can slip out of position. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking or grating noise when you open your mouth, or restriction when attempting to opening your mouth wide.
Do You Have a TMJ Disorder?
- Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
- Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaws?
- Do you have frequent headaches or neck aches?
- Does the pain get worse when you clench your teeth?
- Does stress make your clenching and pain worse?
- Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch, or lock when you open your mouth?
- Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth, eat, or yawn?
- Have you ever injured your neck, head, or jaws?
- Have you had problems (such as arthritis) with other joints?
- Do you have teeth that no longer touch when you bite?
- Do your teeth meet differently from time to time?
- Is it hard to use your front teeth to bite or tear food?
- Are your teeth sensitive, loose, broken or worn?
The more times you answered “yes”, the more likely it is that you may have a TMJ disorder. Understanding TMJ disorders will also help you understand how they are treated.
Treatment
There are various conservative treatment options, and very often treatment may require multidisciplinary treatment with the help of a physiotherapist, chiropractor, massage therapist and/or dental surgeon.
Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, our dentist in Calgary will determine the proper course of treatment. It is important to note that treatment always works best with a team approach of self-care combined with professional care. The initial goals are to relieve muscle spasms and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant.
Medications, including steroids and dermal fillers, can also be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include:
- Resting your jaw
- Keeping your teeth apart when you are not swallowing or eating
- Eating soft foods
- Applying ice and heat
- Exercising your jaw
- Practicing good posture
Stress management techniques and physical therapy may also be recommended, as well as a temporary, clear plastic appliance known as a splint. A splint (or nightguard) fits over your top or bottom teeth and helps keep your teeth apart, thereby relaxing the muscles and reducing pain. There are different types of appliances used for different purposes. A nightguard helps you stop clenching or grinding your teeth and reduces muscle tension at night. It also helps to protect the cartilage and joint surfaces. An orthotic stabilization appliance is worn 24 hours/day, or just at night, to help you maintain your jaw into a proper position. Appliances also help protect tooth wear.
Consult our NW Calgary Dentist for TMJ Treatment!
If you think you may have a TMJ disorder, we would be happy to help and get you the best care possible, and whether it is with another health care provider, we can help refer you to or us!
Our dentist in NW Calgary proudly serves patients from the surrounding areas of Scenic Acres, Ranchlands, Northwest Calgary, Silver Springs, and Bowness. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation for TMJ treatment.
Visit us for various oral care services, including dentures, sedation dentistry, emergency dentistry, children’s dentist in Calgary, TMJ, crowns, white fillings, root canal therapy, TMJ treatment, implants, veneers, Invisalign, fillings, teeth whitening, etc.
FAQs
TMJ treatment focuses on reducing strain in the jaw joints and surrounding muscles when they are not working smoothly together. Jaw discomfort can develop from habits such as clenching, grinding, stress-related tension, or bite imbalance. At Spring Hill Dentist, we look at how your jaw moves and functions, then recommend care aimed at easing tension and improving comfort rather than forcing permanent changes.
TMJ concerns can show up in different ways. Some people notice aching or tightness in the jaw, unusual sounds when opening or closing their mouth, or difficulty moving the jaw freely. Others experience frequent headaches or discomfort around the ears. When these symptoms continue or worsen, a dental assessment can help determine whether TMJ management may be helpful.
TMJ care typically starts with conservative options that place minimal stress on the jaw. Depending on your needs, this may include a custom-fitted night guard or splint, guided movement techniques, and practical self-care recommendations. Treatment is individualized and adjusted over time based on how your jaw responds.
TMJ treatment timelines vary widely. Some patients see changes within a few weeks, while others require ongoing management over a longer period. Improvement is often gradual, and consistency with recommended appliances or exercises plays an important role in symptom relief.
Yes. Because the jaw muscles and joints are closely connected to surrounding structures, strain in this area can sometimes affect the head, neck, or ears. A dental evaluation can help determine whether jaw function may be contributing to these symptoms and whether TMJ-focused care could help reduce overall muscle tension.
Insurance coverage for TMJ-related care varies by provider and plan. Some plans may help cover part of the cost of custom appliances, while others may not. Our team can review all your benefits and explain any expected costs so you can make an informed decision before starting care.
Managing jaw discomfort often involves simple daily adjustments. This may include limiting hard or chewy foods during flare-ups, becoming aware of clenching habits, managing stress, maintaining good posture, and following any jaw exercises recommended by your dentist. Regular follow-up visits help ensure your care plan continues to suit your needs.
