Do you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache? Do you hear clicking sounds when you eat, or find it hard to open your mouth wide? If so, you might be one of the many people living with a TMJ disorder. At Hermitage Dental Clinic in Edmonton, we understand how TMJ pain can affect every part of your day.
We can help. We offer personalized restorative dentistry treatments to relieve your pain and get your jaw functioning smoothly again.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
Your TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint, is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. You have one on each side of your face. When this joint or the muscles around it become strained or misaligned, it can cause painful symptoms. Common signs you might have a TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness, especially in the morning
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you open or close your mouth
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Earaches or a feeling of fullness in your ears
- Difficulty chewing or pain when biting down
- A jaw that “locks” or gets stuck open or closed
Your Personalized Path to a Pain-Free Jaw
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMJ. After a thorough examination, our Edmonton team will create a custom plan just for you. Our dentists have the experience to accurately identify the root cause of your jaw pain. Your treatment may include:
A Custom Dental splint or Night Guard
If you clench or grind your teeth, a custom-made night guard is often the most effective solution. Unlike store-bought versions, our guards are precisely fitted to your teeth. They act as a cushion, absorbing the damaging pressure from clenching and grinding. This allows your jaw muscles to fully relax overnight, reducing pain and protecting your teeth from wear. Dr. Romil Patel is skilled in the design and fitting of comfortable, effective custom night guards.
Stress Reduction & Jaw Exercises
We can teach you simple exercises to gently stretch and strengthen your jaw muscles, improving their flexibility and range of motion. We’ll also talk about ways to manage stress, which is a major contributor to jaw tension. Dr. Ranjit Uppal brings a detailed, diagnostic approach to understanding complex jaw joint issues.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Sometimes, small changes can make a difference. We can provide advice on diet (like temporarily avoiding chewy or hard foods) and habits to help your jaw heal. Dr. Shipra Saraiya provides a compassionate, whole-body approach to managing TMJ pain and stress.
Your First Step to Relief is Easy
We know it can be frustrating to seek help for pain that others can’t see. We make the process simple and supportive.
- Comprehensive Consultation: We’ll sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and gently examine your jaw joint and facial muscles.
- Clear Diagnosis & Plan: We’ll explain what we believe is causing your pain and walk you through your personalized treatment options.
- Comfortable Treatment: We’ll get you started on your path to relief, whether that means taking impressions for a night guard or teaching you helpful exercises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need surgery?
Most TMJ disorders can be successfully managed with non-surgical treatments like custom night guards and lifestyle changes. Surgery is only considered in very rare and severe cases.
How long will it take to feel better?
Many patients notice a significant improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks of consistently using their night guard or doing their exercises. Your commitment to the plan is key to a successful recovery.
Is a night guard uncomfortable?
There’s a short adjustment period. But our custom-made guards are far more comfortable than one-size-fits-all boil-and-bite models from the store.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
For some people with very mild symptoms, TMJ discomfort might temporarily ease up. However, if your symptoms are consistent, like regular jaw pain, clicking, or headaches, it usually means there’s an underlying issue. Ignoring it can sometimes cause the problem to get worse over time. It’s always best to get it checked so we can prevent it from becoming a chronic problem.
I don’t grind my teeth. Could I still have a TMJ disorder?
Absolutely. While teeth grinding is a common cause, it’s not the only one. TMJ disorders can also be triggered by conditions like arthritis, a past injury to your jaw, chronic stress that causes you to clench your jaw during the day, or even the way your teeth naturally fit together. During your consultation, we’ll help you figure out the most likely cause for your specific situation.
Will my health insurance cover TMJ treatment?
Coverage varies greatly between insurance plans. Many plans do offer coverage for TMJ treatment, especially when it involves a medically necessary custom-made night guard. Our team is experienced in working with insurance companies and will help you understand your benefits and submit the necessary paperwork.
I’ve had TMJ pain for years. Is it too late for me to get help?
It is never too late to seek relief. While chronic TMJ issues might need a more comprehensive approach, we have helped many patients who have lived with pain for a long time. We’ll focus on managing your symptoms and improving function, no matter how long you’ve been dealing with the problem.
Stop Living with Jaw Pain. We Can Help.
You don’t have to plan your day around your jaw pain. Take the first step toward a more comfortable life and get relief for your TMJ symptoms.
Contact Hermitage Dental Clinic in Edmonton at 587-806-4168 today or schedule your consultation online. Our skilled team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief from TMJ discomfort.