TMJ/TMD

Dr. Ian Gray | Implants | Braces | Wisdom Teeth | Sedation

Signs and symptoms you are suffering from TMJ/TMD

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint of the jaw. There are two TMJs, one on each side of the jaw, and they work in unison to open and close your mouth, allowing you to chew and talk. TMJ Disorder (or TMD) is a chronic degenerative condition that can take years to develop and have serious consequences to your health and quality of life. When your jaw is misaligned, it can cause other symptoms (some of which you might not expect) such as:

Headaches, neck, and/or shoulder pain
Clicking and/or popping sounds in the jaw
Locked jaw
Jaw pain
Teeth grinding
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Tingling fingers
Ringing in the ear

How do I know if I have a bite issue?

When you come in for your appointment, Dr. Gray and his team will assess your teeth and mouth for any visible signs of wear. If there is an issue, we will use a few different methods to get to the root of the problem and develop a treatment plan. Some of the methods we use to determine if you have a bite issue include:

Complete oral exam
Panoramic X-rays
Model of your mouth using our 3D scanner
High-definition photos

Invisalign® for TMD

In many cases, TMD symptoms can be resolved with orthodontic treatment. We offer Invisalign clear aligners as an effective remedy for TMD in adults.

Invisalign clear aligners are made of clear plastic that is molded to fit your teeth perfectly. Each set of trays moves your teeth slightly, much like traditional braces, until your teeth are in the ideal position for better jaw alignment.

Why choose Invisalign clear aligners for TMD treatment

Invisalign clear aligners are gentle on your jaw and your mouth
Each set of aligners is customized to your teeth for maximum comfort and precise results. There are now wires or metal parts to poke your cheeks or irritate your gums, and the aligners are designed to move your teeth gently.
Invisalign clear aligners are removable
You will not be inconvenienced, because you can take your aligners out any time you need to eat or drink and when you want to brush and floss. You can also take them out for short periods, for instance when you have an important event or when you’re having your picture taken
Invisalign clear aligners are… clear
They are virtually invisible in your mouth. You’ll know you’re wearing them, but others may not even notice them at all. You can go about your day without worrying that your smile is standing out for the wrong reasons.

Why keep suffering, when there is a clear solution to all your problems?

TMD pain can really disrupt your life, and if you don’t do something about it, you’ll only suffer more as time goes on. Invisalign clear aligners can make your TMD symptoms disappear for good. Contact us for more information about how Invisalign clear aligners can relieve your pain.

What if I have a TMJ problem? What are the next steps?

Depending on your situation, there are generally 2 ways to correct TMJ disorder:

One solution is to use braces and possibly other orthodontic appliances to correct the position and development of the jaws. By establishing a harmonious bite, this will then calm the TMJ and the supporting muscles down.
The second option is to establish a physiologic bite position using an appliance for 2-3 weeks, then use crowns to restore your mouth to this healthy position.

Why it’s important to treat TMD

Most TMJ problems are the result of epigenetics. This is where the environment does not allow the full expression of the genes. (It is important to note that TMJ disorder can be treated at any age). Environmental factors include diet, breastfeeding, mouth breathing, among other things. TMJ problems can also be the result of a traumatic injury. Because the TMJ is a joint, it will continue to wear down (like a knee joint), and symptoms will likely develop as you age.

What if I have a TMJ problem? What are the next steps?

Depending on your situation, there are generally 2 ways to correct TMJ disorder:

One solution is to use braces and possibly other orthodontic appliances to correct the position and development of the jaws. By establishing a harmonious bite, this will then calm the TMJ and the supporting muscles down.
The second option is to establish a physiologic bite position using an appliance for 2-3 weeks, then use crowns to restore your mouth to this healthy position.

Why it’s important to treat TMD

When is the best time to treat TMD?

It is always a good idea to treat early. The best time is in childhood in order to prevent future problems. In general, if you have a TMJ problem (whether you have symptoms or not), we always recommend treating as early as possible — because you will be working with healthier (less compromised) structures — rather than waiting for things to degenerate further.

If you have any follow-up questions or you want to come in for an assessment, please contact our Newmarket dental office at (289) 272-8142

Book Appointment

Monday	7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday	7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday	7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday	7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday	Closed
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed

Signs and symptoms you are suffering from TMJ/TMD

How do I know if I have a bite issue?

(289) 272-8142

Invisalign® for TMD

Why choose Invisalign clear aligners for TMD treatment

Invisalign clear aligners are gentle on your jaw and your mouth

Invisalign clear aligners are removable

Invisalign clear aligners are… clear

Why keep suffering, when there is a clear solution to all your problems?

What if I have a TMJ problem? What are the next steps?

Why it’s important to treat TMD

What if I have a TMJ problem? What are the next steps?

Why it’s important to treat TMD

When is the best time to treat TMD?