Do you suffer frequent headaches, dizziness, or facial pain? While you might not associate these symptoms with a dental problem, they are among the many potential signs of TMJ disorder. Here at Scott and Derry Dental Care in Milton, ON we offer a wide variety of treatment options.
Signs of TMJ disorder
Some patients report that they have seen one or more doctors for their symptoms, to no avail. TMJ disorders may be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, largely because the symptoms can vary widely from one patient to the next. If afflicted, you may experience one or more of the following:
- Migraines and migraine-like headaches
- Neck, shoulder, or upper back pain
- Tinnitus or other hearing problems
- Pain when chewing
- Jaws making a clicking or popping sound
- Feeling of stiffness or grinding sensation in the joint when you move your jaw
- Limited movement or “locked” jaw
- Dizziness and other symptoms
What causes TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder, also called TMJ dysfunction, essentially means there is something wrong with the jaw. It is not a specific disease or type of injury, but rather an umbrella term referring to a wide variety of potential dysfunctions.
The underlying cause of your pain may be one or more of the following:
- Deformities or birth defects that prevented the jaw from developing properly
- Injury to the bone, muscle, or directly to the joint
- Complications or surgical procedures in the area
- Degenerative or chronic inflammatory joint conditions, such as arthritis
- Bruxism, which means clenching or grinding of teeth
- Tooth damage or misalignment, leading to imbalanced bite force
- Less commonly, TMJ disorder may be caused by cysts, cancers, or other conditions affecting the jaw area
TMJ disorder prevention and treatment
You may be able to reduce your risk of TMJ disorders by avoiding excess strain on the jaw, maintaining good dental health, and correcting any existing orthodontic problems. However, it is most often not preventable.
The best treatment for TMJ disorders varies widely from one patient to the next, due to the variety of potential causes and symptoms. After an examination and an in-depth discussion of your symptoms, we will devise a customized plan to address the issue. A few of the many potential treatment options include:
- Dental treatment or appliance to adjust the bite
- Massage, physical therapy, or other relaxation techniques
- Lifestyle changes such as eating soft foods
- Anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medications
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I am very happy with scott and Derry Dental I have been with them for 2 years. I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a good dentist. And the staff there is friendly and very helpful.
TMJ Disorder FAQs
What is TMJ/TMD, and how does it affect me?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull, and TMD (temporomandibular disorder) is when issues arise in this joint. Symptoms often include jaw pain, clicking sounds, difficulty chewing, or even headaches. If this sounds familiar, Dr. Jameela Jifri and her team at Scott and Derry Dental Care in Milton, Ontario, are here to help!
What are the common causes of TMJ/TMD?
There is not always a single culprit, but possible causes include jaw injury, teeth grinding (also known as bruxism), stress, arthritis, or even misaligned teeth. We will conduct a thorough assessment to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
How can I tell if I need professional treatment for TMJ/TMD?
If you are experiencing persistent jaw pain, limited jaw range of motion, or regular popping and clicking sounds, it is time to book an appointment at our office. Our team evaluates your symptoms to decide the best course of action.
What types of treatments are available for TMJ/TMD?
Dr. Jifri may recommend treatments such as custom-made occlusal splints (also known as night guards), physical therapy exercises, lifestyle adjustments, or, in rare cases, more advanced procedures. The team will tailor a treatment plan specifically designed for you.
Can stress really make TMJ/TMD worse?
Absolutely! Stress often leads to habits like clenching or grinding your teeth, which can worsen TMJ/TMD symptoms. Our team can provide stress-management tips and help protect your jaw with solutions like splints or relaxation techniques.
Is TMJ/TMD treatment considered painful?
Treatment is actually designed to relieve pain, not cause it! Our caring team take extra measures to ensure your comfort at every step. You deserve relief, and you are in great hands.
How soon will I see results after starting treatment?
Recovery timelines vary for each individual, depending on the severity of their TMD and the chosen treatment approach. Some patients notice improvement within days, especially with the use of night guards, while others may take several weeks to see a difference. Consistency is key, and Dr. Jifri guides you on the path to recovery with patience and expertise.
Scott and Derry Dental Care - Dr. Jameela Jifri
If you are looking for a dentist facility where your entire family can get treated with the same professional care, Scott and Derry dental care is the one for you. We provide a comfortable environment for patients of all ages and backgrounds to get treated for dental related issues. With up to date technology and the latest equipment, we assure the best quality services from our skilled team of dentists led by Dr.Jameela Jifri. Our services range from preventive, general, hygiene, restorative dental treatments and cosmetic enhancements to dental surgeries. As we value your convenience we offer flexible appointment schedules with weekends and late-night appointment time and easy locations with free parking facilities. Dental facilities are designed with free Wi-Fi, a clean environment and a classy ambience to help patients relax and feel comfortable at all times. All treatments are catered to each patient's unique conditions and needs including their lifestyle and budget. Our staff consists of professional individuals who are passionate about helping people lead a healthier happy life and they are ready to guide you throughout the process with any help needed.
