Do you often find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? Do you suffer from frequent jaw pain? You may have TMD.
TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorders, are often caused by a jaw injury, inflammation, or overuse. A common symptom of TMD is bruxism, or clenching and grinding teeth. Adults may unconsciously clench or grind their teeth when awake or asleep. Teeth grinding is generally the result of stress and anxiety, and is often paired with a clenched jaw. Those with an abnormal bite or crooked and missing teeth can be more prone to this condition than others.
Dr. Shruti Chahal is experienced in diagnosing and treating TMD. She will review your symptoms in order to find a solution to alleviate pain and reverse tooth damage.
Common Signs of TMD
For many patients, indicators of TMD may include:
- Stress
- Headaches
- Tooth Pain
- Bruxism
- Jaw Soreness
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Muscle Soreness
- Lockjaw
- Loose Teeth
- Fractured Teeth
Treating Jaw Pain
Dr. Chahal uses the Tekscan®: also known as T-scan, a handheld device used to accurately measure the biting forces in your mouth. This technology provides feedback for each tooth to determine where there is an imbalance. This information allows Dr. Chahal to provide personalized TMD treatment. There are multiple methods of treating TMD:
Mouthguards: A custom mouthguard repositions the jaw so it can relax in a natural position and the teeth will make proper contact. Mouthguards can be worn at night to prevent unconscious clenching and grinding.
Restorative and cosmetic dental procedures: If your teeth have been chipped, cracked, or worn down from bruxism, cosmetic and restorative dental procedures can help. We may recommend tooth bonding, dental crowns, or dental veneers to restore and resurface the teeth and allow them to make contact without stress.
Orthodontics: If tooth misalignment is the cause of your bite disorder, orthodontics may be recommended. Invisalign clear aligners or metal braces are used to straighten teeth and rebalance the bite. Straightening teeth often eliminate symptoms, as crooked teeth are a common cause of bruxism and TMD.
Contact Our Calgary, AB Dental Office
Call Dr. Chahal for comfortable and comprehensive dental solutions at (403) 910-5452. You may also schedule an appointment with her online.