While mouth pain is a surprisingly common symptom experienced by Canadians, the average person would be hard-pressed to answer what is TMD or what is TMJ?
These abbreviations are inherently interlinked and sometimes confused. Both relating to the temporomandibular joint, they are two different things. One describes the joint, while the other describes a condition affecting it.
Learn what is TMD, what is TMJ, and get TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine with your local dentists at Clinique Dentaire PG.
To answer the question, what is TMJ, we must go back to that long and peculiar looking word…
TMJ is an abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint. It doesn’t describe a condition that can be treated. It’s simply the joint itself.
There are two temporomandibular joints in the human body. They connect the jawbone to the rest of the skull. The joint itself is unique. Although bilateral, a temporomandibular joint functions as a single unit. You use joints on both sides whenever you are speaking, eating, or otherwise moving your mouth.
Now you can answer: what is TMJ? It’s time to learn about the fairly common disorder affecting both joints.
Now we move to the next question that could give you more insight into your oral health. What is TMD?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint. TMD refers to temporomandibular disorder. This is a condition where the joints, muscles, and jaws stop functioning correctly. It can lead to mouth pain and facial pain. Discomfort or severe pain can radiate throughout the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
Now you know how to answer: what is TMD? Let’s look at how this can affect your overall health and explore the available treatments.
It’s important to note that TMD and TMJ are sometimes used interchangeably. The steps to alleviate the disorder can be referred to as both TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine and TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine.
There are several telltale signs that you need to see a dentist for TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine.
The most common symptoms leading to TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine include:
If you are a frequent bruxer (teeth grinder) then you are more likely to need TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine. Some of the symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so it’s important that you visit your local dentist for diagnosis and TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine.
TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine is based on the symptoms, your age, your overall health, and in some cases your preference.
Because the causes of temporomandibular joint pain are complex, the treatments could be varied to provide the best relief and comfort.
In the dental office, we provide TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine with a focus on the underlying cause. An orthopedic appliance is often necessary, as most dental patients require TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine after years of bruxism. A splint or mouthguard will be developed from a mold of your teeth. The appliance will alleviate pressure on the joint.
Other treatments can include cold and hot packs that alleviate swelling and discomfort. Physical therapy can also be used as a form of TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine. If clenching is related to stress, you can follow relaxation techniques or get help with stress management. Even changing your diet to include softer foods can help to rest the joint, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
In the most advanced cases, you may be referred for surgery as a form of TMJ treatment in Sainte-Catherine.
The team at Clinique Dentaire PG can diagnose a temporomandibular joint disorder and provide effective dental treatments for mouth pain. Whether it’s through dental appliances, therapy, or any of the other extensive treatments available, we will make sure that you get the right care to end mouth pain.
TMD treatment in Sainte-Catherine can significantly improve your quality of life, giving you the energy and confidence to face any challenge and achieve the things that matter to you. Book your appointment at Clinique Dentaire PG today.