What is TMD? A guide to dental services for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Langley and Brookswood, BC

Dental TMD Services in Langley BC Area

Chronic migraines, neck, back, and shoulder pain, ringing or buzzing in the ears. Why is a dental office talking about these problems? While these conditions seemingly have nothing to do with the oral cavity, they can be rooted in the mouth! Specifically, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) refer to abnormalities that arise with the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. We at Smile365 Dental have the training and technology to identify the source of your symptoms from our Brookswood area office in Langley, BC. Accurate diagnostics represent a TMD service and inform other services and therapeutics for your treatment plan.

What is the TMJ?

“TMJ” refers to the Temporomandibular Joint. There is one joint on each side of the skull. These joints connect the temporal bones on the side and base of the skull and the mandible (lower jaw). They function like a hinge, allowing the joints to support smooth, fluid movements. So, you can speak, eat, and otherwise use your jaw comfortably and efficiently.

 

 

What disorders can affect the TMJ?

The TMJ functions like a well-oiled machine, relying on surrounding tissues and structures, such as muscles and ligaments, to operate smoothly and healthier as intended. So, any time the joints and their connected parts are damaged or injured, it can affect how your jaw feels and moves. A few of the common causes of TMD include:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and similar degenerative conditions.
  • Chronic teeth-grinding and jaw-clenching (bruxism).
  • Trauma to the jaw, head, and neck.
  • Displacement of the discs in the joints

TMD symptoms are also associated with a range of other factors, including emotional distress and behaviours like eating or chewing on hard objects such as ice.

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How do you treat TMD?

Dr. Harpreet Aulakh may suspect that you have TMD during a routine recall visit to our office. She may hear a clicking or popping sound when you open and close your jaw. You may mention jaw stiffness or pain that radiates to the face, neck, shoulders, ears, and back. Additionally, Dr. Aulakh may detect telltale signs of bruxism on your teeth, including cracks and chips to natural enamel and dental restorations. Persistent, untreated teeth-grinding can not only damage the teeth and restorations, but it is also associated with TMD. After all, the extreme pressure placed on your teeth and jaws can stress the joints. Treatment options are varied, and treatment plans are often multi-dimensional. Depending on what she finds during an exam and consultation, treatment may include:

  • Oral appliance therapy to reposition and protect oral structures.
  • Relaxation techniques to manage stress associated with bruxism and TMD.
  • Physical therapy.
  • Behavioural modifications (stop chewing ice, fingernails, and other destructive habits)

 We will not know what is best for you until we examine your mouth and discuss your concerns. Schedule an appointment at our office. Call (604) 409-8660 today.

 

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Dr. Harpreet Aulakh

Dr. Harpreet Aulakh, DDS

A graduate from University of Alberta, Dr. Harpreet Aulakh is a very established professional in the field of dentistry. She is a firm believer in giving back to the community by providing the best possible dental care to her patients. It has always been Dr. Aulakh’s passion to restore her patient’s health and reward the trust they place in her by restoring their dental health and providing them with the best dental care solutions.

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