Posted: October 6, 2020
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is a condition that can cause chronic pain in the neck and jaw, headaches, earaches, stiffness and grinding of the jaw, and more. Often, people suffering from TMJ don’t realize it at first because the symptoms can be so varied, and they continue to suffer after trying out different ineffective or short-lived remedies.
Dr. Kendra Schick has extensive experience diagnosing and treating TMJ (also abbreviated TMD). If you suspect that you are suffering from TMD, please call Evolution Dental today at 403-208-9965 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
At-Home TMJ Treatment Options
If you are suffering due to TMJ, you probably want to try to relieve your pain at home while you wait for your dental appointment to find a permanent solution. At-home TMJ remedies you can try include:
- Using a warm compress on your jaw
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol
- Avoid eating hard, crunchy, chewy foods
- Gently stretch your jaw, and try to relax it as much as possible
While these treatments may provide temporary relief, the best way to find a long-term solution is to visit Dr. Schick. She will work with you to find a treatment plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Long-Term Treatment Options for TMJ
TMJ symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable, but luckily there are many effective TMJ treatment options available. Which one is best for you will be determined after a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Schick.
TMJ treatment options can include:
- TENS therapy
- Orthotic device
- Reconstructive or orthodontic dental work
TENS therapy utilizes electric currents to help relax your jaw muscles, relieving pain and helping to find the ideal position for your jaw. After this is determined, a long-term treatment plan can be put in place.
Long-term treatment options include using an orthotic device, which holds the jaw in a comfortable position and prevents teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism). Bruxism is closely connected to TMJ, and patients often find that once they stop grinding their teeth, their TMJ symptoms are reduced or eliminated.
Reconstructive and/or orthodontic dental work is another long-term solution. Dental work can help to fix your bite and jaw alignment, addressing the root cause and providing long-term relief from TMJ.
Dr. Schick practices full-face orthodontics, which addresses the entire face and jaw instead of merely straightening the teeth. Full face orthodontics actually helps to guide jaw growth so that your teeth fit comfortably in your mouth and your jaw reaches its ideal shape and size without surgery.
Schedule Your TMJ Consultation
If you are suffering from TMJ pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Schick at Evolution Dental by calling 403-208-9965 today. We will be happy to evaluate you and see if TMJ is the possible cause of your chronic pain and headaches, and if so, help you find an appropriate treatment plan. Patients often find that their quality of life becomes significantly better after successful TMJ treatment.
We serve patients in Downtown, Northwest, and nearby areas of Calgary, Alberta.
