TMD/TMJ
Calgary, Alberta
Your temporomandibular joint is responsible for all of the movement of your jaw. There are over a dozen disorders that can affect your temporomandibular joint. These are known collectively as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD or sometimes TMJ). TMD is a neuromuscular disorder, and Dr. Chee has experience in treating TMD and performing a number of neuromuscular treatments .
Symptoms of TMD
The symptoms of TMD may be various, and sometimes hard to link to their source. Many TMD sufferers have been diagnosed with other illnesses and may have received treatment that failed to correct their symptoms. Commonly reported symptoms of TMD include:
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Limited jaw mobility including lockjaw
- Back and neck aches
- Ear ringing
- Chronic headaches and migraines
These symptoms may also indicate other dental or systemic health issues. When you are examined for TMD, Dr. Chee looks for other signs of TMD such as:
- Uneven wear on the teeth
- Downward angled jaw
- Facial asymmetry
A number of diagnostic tools can be used to determine if you are suffering from TMD. Dr. Chee utilizes electromyography, electrosonography, and jaw scanning in addition to x-rays and manual examinations to determine whether or not your temporomandibular joint is in proper functioning order. If TMD is responsible for your discomfort, Dr. Chee is able to customize a treatment option that will help realign your temporomandibular joint, and restore optimal dental health.
Treating TMD
To treat TMD, the appropriate alignment of your jaw must first be established. To do this, Dr. Chee uses a TENS Unit to help the muscles in your jaw relax. This serves the dual purpose of alleviating discomfort and allowing the proper position of your jaw to be determined. Sometimes the use of the TENS allows your jaw to go back in place without further treatment. Other times, you may need to use an orthotic (also called an oral splint) to hold your jaw in place. Most of the time, wearing this orthotic at night while you sleep is sufficient to give treatment. If further treatment is required or if you want permanent correction without the use of an orthotic, we can discuss reconstruction options.
If you live in or around Calgary, Alberta, Northwest Calgary, or Airdrie and are suffering from TMD, please contact Dr. Gordon Chee at Aesthetic Dental Studio to schedule an initial consultation today.
