TMJ Treatment in Sault Ste. Marie
At Bay Dental Group in Sault Ste. Marie a TMJ diagnosis involves a careful patient history and physical examination as the disorder also has symptoms that a mirror toothache, sinus problem, arthritis or gum disease.
TMJ is short for “temporomandibular joint disorder” and refers to pain in the jaw joint. What are the symptoms of TMJ?
Although the hallmark of TMJ is pain in the jaw joint, it can cause symptoms in a number of different areas, including pain in the area of the joint, headaches, dizziness, difficulty chewing or biting, ear pain, ringing in the ear, and even hearing loss. TMJ can sometimes lead to nausea and vomiting. In some cases, it can even cause your jaw to lock open or shut.
What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint disorder and may also be referred as TMD, a condition involving the jaw, the jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles controlling chewing and movement. The disorder is incorrectly called TMJ which is actually refers the temporomandibular joint itself.
What will happen at my TMJ appointment?
At Bay Dental Group in Sault Ste. Marie a TMJ diagnosis involves a careful patient history and physical examination as the disorder also has symptoms that mirror a toothache, sinus problems, arthritis or gum disease. Symptoms of TMJ can include jaw pain, jaw joint pain, headaches, dizziness, difficulty chewing or biting, ear pain, ringing in the ear and possible hearing loss, nausea and vomiting and /or a locking of the jaw with the inability to either open or close it.
What is TMJ caused by?
TMJ temporomandibular joint disorder can be caused by a number of factors including trauma to the jaw area, wear and tear over time, and behavioural habits such as teeth grinding or clenching. In diagnosing TMJ, your Bay Dental Group dentist will assess for pain and tenderness, listen for clicking, popping or grating sounds with jaw motion and examine bite and facial muscle movement. Digital imaging also provides information about the joints, muscles, soft tissue and bony detail of the area.
What are other treatment options for TMJ
TMJ temporomandibular joint disorder treatment varies, however, at Bay Dental Group we take nonsurgical therapy as the first approach, with surgery left as a last resort. Lifestyle and behavioural changes may prove a successful first step followed by a custom-made mouth or bite guard.
Other treatment options may include physical therapy, specialized medication, injections and possibly, surgical treatment.