TMJ in Pitt Meadows (Temporomandibular Joints Dysfunction)

The joint that connects the jawbone to the skull is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The chronic
inflammation of TMJ or acute TMJ involves many elements such as the ligament, muscles, bones, tendons, connective tissues and teeth. TMJ can affect all of
these elements and can also have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Having headaches in the morning
• Having earaches in the morning
• Getting migraines in the morning
• Having a ringing sound in the ears, called tinnitus
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Popping, cracking or grating sounds while opening or closing the mouth
• Discomfort in chewing or biting
• Tenderness or jaw pain
• Dizziness

Causes of TMJ

When there is an unnecessary strain on the temporomandibular joint, TMJ issues might happen. Below are some of the reasons for TMJ, but are not limited to:

• Bruxism, unconscious grinding of jaws and clenching of teeth
• Trauma to the jaw
• Degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis
• Misalignment of the jaw or teeth
• Excessive nail biting or chewing gum

Treatment

We start by first examining your jaw and also taking a look at your dental history to determine the cause of your TMJ. Treatments will vary according to the cause. Some of the treatments used are:

• Orthodontic treatment: If the cause of the TMJ is a bad bite, then orthodontic treatment can be used to correct the misalignment of the jaws. This will not only cure TMJ but can also enhance your smile and have health benefits.
• Splints: They are also known as mouthguards. If TMJ is caused due to bruxism, nighttime mouthguards can be helpful.
• Biofeedback: It can also be helpful. Nighttime biofeedback uses a headband that detects the clenching and grinding and sounds an alarm to stop them, without you waking up.
• Relaxation therapies: Bruxism and TMJ can sometimes be due to a lot of stress. TMJ treatments may also sometimes include therapies to deal with or reduce stress.

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