TMJ Treatment Kelowna
A Dental Approach to Pain Relief
If you’re dealing with persistent jaw pain and clicking or popping noises while opening your mouth, you may be experiencing symptoms as a result of a TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, and when this joint isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your overall quality of life. At Knox Mountain Dentistry, Dr. Sanders provides personalized TMJ treatment to help alleviate pain, restore jaw function, and improve your oral health.
How Does Dr. Sanders Diagnose TMJ Disorders?
Diagnosing a TMJ disorder involves a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw joints, jaw muscles, and overall oral health. During an exam, Dr. Sanders will ask about symptoms you’re experiencing, such as jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth. He will also check for signs like clicking or popping sounds, tenderness in the jaw muscles, and limited jaw movement. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays may be used to get a clearer picture of your jaw’s alignment and structure. Patients should be sure to share any history of teeth grinding (bruxism), facial pain, or previous sports injuries, as these factors can contribute to TMJ issues.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders can have various causes, including injury, arthritis, or chronic habits like teeth grinding. Bruxism a.k.a. teeth grinding, is one of the most common contributors to TMJ-related pain. Stress, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, and even certain sports injuries can lead to issues with the temporomandibular joint. Without treatment, TMJ disorders can become long-term problems, affecting your ability to speak, chew, and perform daily activities without pain.
We offer Custom Nightguards To Help
Most patients are usually unaware of their nighttime clenching, and it is often a spouse or significant other that will confirm its occurrence. Our dental professionals will assess your teeth for signs of bruxism, and in certain cases may recommend the fabrication of a night guard for you to wear while you sleep. These guards are made from a firm plastic material that allows you to wear against the guard as opposed to your natural teeth.