Do you suffer from random headaches in the morning, jaw pain, or toothaches? Our dentist in Wetaskiwin will examine your teeth, bite, and mouth and provide treatment to relieve your pain. Contact our office if you’re looking to receive TMJ treatment near you.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to preventing oral health problems. Not only will your dentist check for cavities and gum disease, but they will also look for signs of oral cancer, abnormal tissues, and signs of TMJ disorder.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) helps your jaw move and function. When the TMJ is inflamed, it can cause temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD can cause pain and difficulties in everyday tasks, such as eating and breathing.
What Causes TMD?
TMD can be caused by various reasons. Some common reasons include:
- Stress
- Injuries to your neck, jaw, or head
- Teeth grinding
- Osteoarthritis
- Dislocating the disk and soft cushion between the socket and the ball
What Are The Symptoms of TMD?
If you suffer from TMD, you will most likely experience one or multiple of the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Difficulties opening and moving your jaw
- Popping or clicking sounds when you move your jaw
- Swelling on the side(s) of your face
- Toothaches
- Neck or jaw pain
- Locking of jaw
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please contact our practice as soon as possible. We provide TMJ treatment in Wetaskiwin and help restore the functionality of your jaw.
What Are The Types of Treatment for TMD?
When TMD is left untreated, it can lead to chronic headaches and other serious health conditions. It’s essential to visit a dentist near you as soon as you notice abnormalities in your mouth. In addition to any dental related pain, you should also inform your dentist of any abnormalities in your jaw, neck, head, and sleeping patterns.
There are various types of treatment available for TMD. The type of treatment recommended will vary depending on the severity and cause of your TMJ pain. Some common types of treatment include:
Pain Medication
Our dentist may prescribe medication to relieve pain and discomfort by relaxing your muscles. Over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, can also be used to relieve pain.
Self-care Practices
Our dentist may recommend one or a combination of the following to help reduce the stress on the jaw muscles:
- Avoid extreme jaw movements
- Eat soft foods
- Reduce stress levels
- Apply ice packs
- Practice gentle jaw stretches
Custom-made Mouthguards
If teeth grinding is the cause of your TMD, our dentist will take impressions and create a custom-fit nightguard for you to wear while you sleep. The nightguard will act as a barrier between your teeth and reduce the impact of grinding. There are also mouthguards that are worn in the daytime if you notice you grind your teeth during the day as well.
Looking for TMD Treatment Near You?
Are you interested in receiving TMD treatment in Wetaskiwin? Contact us to schedule your consultation today! We look forward to relieving your pain and restoring the functionality of your mouth.