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What Is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a vital joint that connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing for essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. TMJ disorders occur when this joint becomes misaligned or damaged, leading to jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. At Davinci Smiles, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ issues to alleviate discomfort and improve oral health.

man after TMJ treatment in Edmonton

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:

  • Jaw pain
  • Headaches
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
  • Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
  • Earache or pain around the ears
  • Facial pain or tenderness
  • Locking of the jaw
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Neck and shoulder pain

To learn more about how TMJ treatment in Edmonton can help you, contact our office for an appointment.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorder

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to managing TMJ disorder. Adopting a soft food diet can minimize the strain on the temporomandibular joint, allowing for its healing and reducing inflammation. Avoiding habits like nail biting, teeth grinding, and excessive gum chewing can also prevent further stress on the jaw joint. Practicing relaxation techniques and stress management can alleviate muscle tension in the face and jaw, promoting jaw health.

Bite Correction

When home remedies prove ineffective, dentists may recommend bite correction through customized dental splints. Dental splints, such as TMJ mouthguards and bruxism mouthguards, can alleviate TMJ symptoms by repositioning and stabilizing the jaw. Research indicates that these splints can reduce TMJ pain with minimal risk of long-term side effects. We properly diagnose and fit dental splints to protect your natural bite and ensure results.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections can offer significant relief. Corticosteroids possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected joint. By injecting corticosteroids directly into the temporomandibular joint, pain and discomfort associated with TMD can be alleviated. TMJ treatment in Edmonton also suppress the immune response and inhibit the release of inflammatory substances, promoting healing in the joint tissues.

Botox Injections

Botox injections have emerged as a promising treatment option for TMJ disorders. Botox temporarily paralyzes the jaw muscles responsible for excessive clenching or grinding. By relaxing these overactive muscles, Botox injections can reduce muscle tension, alleviate jaw pain, and decrease the frequency and intensity of headaches associated with TMJ. The procedure involves injecting small amounts of Botox directly into specific jaw muscles.

Arthroscopy/Arthrocentesis

Arthroscopy and arthrocentesis are valuable procedures in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Arthroscopy involves inserting a tiny fiber-optic camera into the joint, enabling an orthopedic surgeon to visually examine the joint and identify the root cause. Arthrocentesis serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It involves draining fluid from the joint using a needle and syringe, aiding in identifying joint swelling causes.

TMJ Surgery

TMJ surgery is considered a last resort due to its extreme nature. During this TMJ treatment in Edmonton, damaged or misaligned parts of the TMJ may be repaired, repositioned, or even removed and replaced. Jaw surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia and require a longer recovery. There are inherent risks associated with jaw surgery, including loss of jaw movement, scarring, and the potential for the body to reject artificial joints.

TMJ Treatment FAQs

What should I expect during a TMJ treatment consultation?

During your TMJ treatment consultation, expect a thorough examination of your jaw function, medical history, and symptoms. Your dentist may also use imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for TMJ treatment in Edmonton varies depending on your provider and the specifics of your policy. While some aspects of treatment may be covered, such as consultations and certain procedures, it’s essential to check with your insurance company or dentist to understand what expenses may be covered and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

Will TMJ heal on its own?

TMJ symptoms may alleviate on their own for some individuals, especially if caused by temporary factors like stress. However, for most people, symptoms persist or worsen over time without proper treatment. Seeking professional evaluation and guidance ensures a more effective management plan to address the underlying causes and alleviate discomfort.

How long does TMJ treatment typically take?

The duration of TMJ treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the chosen treatment, and individual response to therapy. Some cases may see improvement with conservative measures within weeks, while others may require more extensive treatment over several months or longer. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary for optimal outcomes.

Schedule Your Consultation

Davinci Smiles, led by Dr. Sholina Kherani, invites you to schedule a consultation for personalized TMJ treatment in Edmonton. Our dedicated team understands the impact of TMJ disorders on your daily life and oral health. We assess your needs, discuss treatment options, and develop a customized plan to alleviate your TMJ symptoms. Take the first step toward a pain-free smile by contacting us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Sholina Kherani.

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