Jaw pain is not normal
If jaw pain has become part of your daily life, it may start to feel normal. The reality is that persistent jaw pain is not normal and may be a symptom of TMD, a condition that affects one or both of your jaw joints. These joints, called the temporomandibular joints, can become inflamed or misaligned, causing discomfort and functional problems.
- Headaches
- Earaches or tenderness near the ears
- Jaw or facial pain
- Soreness in the neck, shoulders or upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping or grinding sounds when using your jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning or opening your mouth fully
Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD)
Diagnosis and treatment options
If you are looking for a trusted provider, our Dental Office in Brantford offers a compassionate and detailed approach to managing TMJ and jaw related discomfort.
Comprehensive evaluation
Your treatment journey begins with a thorough clinical examination. We will assess your face, jaw joints, bite and teeth. During this appointment, we check for signs of inflammation, tenderness and listen for clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth. If TMD is diagnosed, we will often start with a bite splint or night guard.
Custom bite splints
Bite splints are made from durable plastic and fitted precisely to your upper or lower teeth. These devices help relieve stress on your jaw by stopping you from grinding or clenching your teeth. They can also help realign the jaw and reduce inflammation in the surrounding muscles and joints.
Additional treatment options
If your symptoms are caused by an uneven bite or missing teeth, we may suggest orthodontic care or restorative procedures. In some cases, reshaping a few specific teeth can help redistribute pressure evenly and relieve strain on the jaw.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint. If this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it is called TMD, which stands for temporomandibular disorder.
TMD symptoms may include jaw pain, soreness near the ears, clicking or grinding sounds when opening your mouth, difficulty chewing, and muscle pain that extends to the neck or shoulders.
A variety of factors may contribute to TMD, including injuries to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding, stress, or even ill fitting dental appliances. Habits such as chewing on pens or biting nails can also be contributing factors.
While headaches can have many causes, TMD is often a contributing factor. A clinical examination is the only way to know for sure.
In most cases, TMJ related pain can be managed without surgery. We begin with conservative, non invasive treatments and only consider surgical options in rare or complex cases. Our goal is always to prioritize your comfort and well being while providing options that suit your needs.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
Just Call - Booking Is That Easy!
Give Us a Call
Tell Us What You Need
Pick a Time That Works for You
