Temporomandibular joint disorders, often referred to by the acronym TMD, refer to issues relating to the crucial joints that connect your jaw to the rest of your skull. Because they are engaged every time you open your mouth, these joints can often become a source of discomfort and pain. At Harvest Hills Dental Care, based in East Gwillimbury, Ontario, our dentists provide specialized TMJ treatments to help soothe your discomfort and give you the relief you need. Our team is committed to assisting with this and other aesthetic and general dentistry needs.
Several factors could lead to the development of TMJ disorders. These include mouth injuries, teeth grinding, misaligned teeth, arthritis, or habits like chewing on hard objects or gum frequently. Often, patients suffer symptoms without realizing that the cause is a TMJ disorder because the symptoms can be quite diverse. Some typical ones include:
At Harvest Hills Dental Care, we understand the complicated nature of these joint disorders. We need to understand the root causes to create an effective treatment plan. For some patients, orthodontic treatments might be used as the first step to rectify misaligned teeth. We might also recommend certain lifestyle changes, such as reducing frequent chewing gum or nail-biting.
We often use oral appliance therapy to treat TMJ and TMD cases. These are custom-made appliances worn at night to reduce teeth grinding and clenching, which stress the joints.
Other treatments for TMJ disorder symptoms may include:
The duration of treatment for TMJ and TMD varies greatly depending on the diagnosed severity of the disorder and the individual’s response to treatment. In some cases, symptoms may improve after a few weeks or months of consistent treatment, while others might require ongoing treatment to manage their condition.
It is essential to note that there is no cure for TMJ and TMD, but effective management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall oral health. Our team works closely with you to develop a personalized dental treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
Don’t just live with jaw discomfort or stiffness. Contact the experienced team at Harvest Hills Dental Care to schedule a TMJ evaluation appointment. We focus on accurate diagnosis and successful treatment plans to help relieve your pain. Our office can be reached by calling (365) 659-1008.