There is a Solution to TMJ (Jaw Joint) Pain
Pain of any kind can affect your quality of life. And at Queen & Albert, we also understand the emotional connection to pain. So when we consult with you, we discuss a holistic treatment plan customised for your circumstances. Therefore, because we’ve seen the varying levels of what causes TMJ pain, we will do our best to physically and emotionally support you.
General Dental
Restorative Dental
Cosmetic Dental
What is TMJ Pain?
This is caused by the improper function of the Temporomandibular Joint, where the socket and ball mechanism enables your jaw to open and close comfortably. We use this joint to speak and chew food, which is a necessary movement for the enjoyment of everyday life. If you experience pain in the jaw, see us at Queen & Albert for a thorough assessment of your condition.
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
- Tooth sensitivity
- Headaches and Migraines
- Aching jaw
- Hearing Loss
- Bruxism (grinding teeth during sleep)
- Damaged and worn-down teeth
- Clicking or popping of your jaw
- Jaw stiffness
What will we ask?
We’ll discuss the following but not limited to:
- Your stress levels
- Have you experienced trauma to the jaw, face and neck?
- Do you grind your teeth?
- We look at family history regarding arthritis and your specific details
- We discuss your mental health
- Do you have allergies and ear issues?
- What triggers flare-ups?
What is the treatment for TMJ Disorder/Pain?
We will start by taking a full mouth x-ray, examining and touching your jaw and face in specific areas. Additionally, we will discuss your comprehensive health history including a summary of your lifestyle habits. Then we can treat TMJ using muscle relaxing injectables, in conjunction with bite splints. And if necessary, recommendations to external specialists for a holistic approach.
How do muscle relaxants work for TMJ?
Muscle-relaxing injectables have traditionally been used for cosmetic anti-wrinkle treatments but are found to be a highly useful and safe way to treat TMJ Pain. Effectively, the injectable serum numbs the nerve receptors in the muscles, which initiate movement and contractions. Over-active muscle contraction or overuse due to stress and bruxism (teeth grinding) is a common cause of TMJ Pain. Lasting approximately four months, muscle relaxants significantly improve the comfort of your jaw, making a big difference, and improving your quality of life.
Don’t Let Pain Affect the Quality of Your Life!
TMJ Pain can be debilitating, so we will make a specific treatment plan to ease your pain. This can involve recommendations to accountable specialists such as a Physiotherapist, Oral Surgeon, Stress Management Practitioner, and Counsellor. These specialists may seem unlikely to work alongside our Dentists at Queen & Albert, but TMJ Pain extends beyond oral health. So, while the healing process isn’t a quick fix when you book a consultation, our team and the recommended specialists know how to ease TMJ Pain. You can trust us to get your recipe right!