TMJ Therapy in Leduc
Relief for Jaw Pain and Tension
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, includes a variety of conditions that affect this joint, along with the surrounding muscles, nerves, and ligaments. If you're experiencing jaw discomfort, clicking sounds, or tension headaches, you may be suffering from TMJ-related issues.
Jaw Pain Is Not Normal - Get Relief with TMJ Treatment in Leduc
Recurring jaw pain isn’t just an inconvenience — it could be a sign of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). This condition affects the joints that connect your jaw to your skull, known as the TMJs. When these joints are strained or misaligned, they can lead to chronic discomfort, inflammation, and a range of other painful symptoms.
Common Signs of TMJ Disorder (TMD)
If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may benefit from TMJ therapy in Leduc:
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Earaches or tenderness near the ears
- Jaw pain, soreness, or stiffness
- Muscle tightness in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving your jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning, or opening your mouth fully
How We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder in Leduc
At Orchard Family Dental, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing TMJ disorder (TMD). Our goal is to reduce your discomfort and restore healthy jaw function through personalized, non-invasive treatments.
Diagnosis
Our process begins with a thorough clinical exam of your jaw, bite, teeth, and facial muscles. During your visit, we’ll evaluate any tenderness, joint clicking or popping, and how your jaw moves when you chew, speak, or swallow. If we confirm signs of TMD, we may recommend a custom bite splint or night guard as your first step toward relief.
Treatment and Relief
We often use custom-made bite splints that fit comfortably over your upper or lower teeth. These appliances reduce teeth grinding and clenching, help reposition the jaw, and relieve tension on your TMJs. This conservative approach is highly effective in reducing inflammation and pain.
Alternative Treatment Options
If your TMJ issues stem from a misaligned bite or missing teeth, orthodontic treatments or restorative procedures may be advised. In certain cases, bite adjustment — reshaping select teeth to redistribute pressure — can provide long-term relief by promoting a more balanced bite.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Book a ConsultationYour consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ refers to the Temporomandibular Joint. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it is known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD for short.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
Symptoms of TMD may include pain and tenderness around the ear, jaw joint, or muscles of the jaw, face, or temples. Other signs can include difficulty opening or closing your mouth, along with clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you chew, yawn, or open your mouth. TMD can also be linked to neck pain and headaches.
What causes TMD?
TMD can be caused by several factors, including jaw injuries and joint conditions like arthritis. It is believed that bruxism (tooth clenching or grinding) and muscle tension in the head or neck may worsen TMD symptoms. Stress is also thought to be a contributing factor, though it is unclear whether stress causes TMD or is a result of it. Other possible causes include poorly fitting dentures, either partial or full, and habits such as nail biting or chewing on pens or pencils. Because of the variety of potential causes, diagnosing TMD can be difficult. The best way to understand your jaw pain is to schedule an appointment.
Is TMD causing my headaches?
Headaches can have a number of different causes. A doctor will need to perform a physical examination to determine if TMD is the cause of your headaches.
Does TMJ treatment require surgery?
In most cases, TMJ pain can be successfully managed with non-invasive treatments. Surgery is only rarely needed for TMD. Your health and comfort are our priority, so we will always present all available treatment options, beginning with the safest and least invasive methods, and leave the final decision in your hands.