NW Calgary General Dentist Dr. Paul Hul
What is TMJTMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders involve the jaw joint are known to cause a myriad of problems. If you have symptoms such as pain or a “clicking” sound when eating or opening and closing your mouth, it is often because the jaw joint and the muscles necessary for chewing are not working correctly.
There are many causes of TMJ disorders. Clenching and grinding of the teeth are most common and are often the result of a misaligned bite. Damage to the jaw joint after injury and disease such as arthritis may damage the joint or tear the muscles and ligaments. The disk inside the joint which acts as a “cushion” may slip out of position for any number of reasons as well.
If you answer “yes” to any of the following, you may have a disorder involving the TMJ:
There are many treatment options available at Point McKay Dental to treat TMJ Disorders. Dr. Paul Hul will complete a detailed evaluation of diagnosis the possibility of a TMJ disorder and to determine the best course of treatment for your situation. Our goal is to relieve joint pain and muscle spasms.
Night guards are often recommended to help stop clenching and/or grinding of the teeth which reduces muscle tension while protecting the cartilage inside the joint and the enamel surface of the teeth. Night guards position your jaw forward to relive pressure on the jaw. Night guards may be worn initially over 8 hours each day to help your jaw heal, transitioning to only while sleeping.