Your TMJ and Understanding TMD
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex and frequently used joints in the body. The TMJ allows your bottom jaw to move, so every time you talk, chew or swallow you are using the TMJs on either side of your head.
The TMJ affects many aspects of your body, particularly the musculoskeletal system. Some symptoms of TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, are:
- Jaw pain / pain in the TMJ
- Clicking of the TMJ
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Pain or problems when chewing
- Headaches, ear or eye aches
- Sore neck muscles / tight shoulder muscles
- Tooth wear
- Mobility of your teeth
Temporomandibular disorder, or TMD, may be caused by:
- A bad bite caused by missing or poorly aligned teeth
- Trauma to the TMJ
- Clenching of the teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Emotional stress causing the two conditions above
- Arthritis
At our Calgary clinic we can offer treatment to restore natural movement of your TMJ and relieve your TMJ discomfort caused by TMD.
- A dental crown or porcelain crown can be placed to restore the balance of your bite
- Spaces in your teeth can be corrected with dental bridges or dental implants
- Teeth can be moved (orthodontics, braces)
- Your bite can be adjusted (equilibriation)
- A splint or night guard (acrylic mouthpiece) can be used to reduce clenching and grinding
- A referral can be made to a physiotherapist, massage therapist or other health care practitioners
- Surgery can be pursued in extremely severe cases
To learn more about TMD and your TMJ, you may:
