Forest Glen Dental - Kitchener

TMJ Therapy in Kitchener

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, and TMD refers to Temporomandibular Disorder. Both terms are used to describe conditions affecting the jaw muscles, nerves, and joints, often causing discomfort and limiting jaw function.
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Jaw Pain is Not Normal

If jaw pain has become part of your daily routine, it may feel like it’s just something you have to live with. However, persistent jaw pain is far from normal. It could be a sign of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), an issue affecting one or both of your TMJs (Temporomandibular Joints). These joints are essential for the movement of your jaw, and when misaligned or inflamed, they can cause significant pain and discomfort.

    Common Signs of TMJ Disorder (TMD)

    The symptoms of TMD can vary, but they commonly include:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Earaches or tenderness around the ear
  • Jaw pain, including discomfort when chewing or yawning
  • Muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding noises from the jaw
  • Difficulty fully opening your mouth

How Do We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder?

Diagnosis

The first step in treating TMD is a thorough clinical examination. At our Dental Office in Kitchener, we evaluate your jaw, bite, face, and teeth for signs of pain and tenderness. We’ll listen for any abnormal sounds, such as clicking or popping, when you open and close your mouth, chew, or swallow. Based on this assessment, we can accurately diagnose your condition.

Treatment and Relief

The initial treatment for TMD often includes the use of bite splints or night guards. These custom-made plastic mouthpieces fit over your upper and/or lower teeth and are designed to prevent the grinding and clenching that contribute to or exacerbate TMD. Additionally, the splints help realign the jaw, relieving stress on the jaw muscles and joints.

Alternative Treatment Options

If your TMD is caused by a misaligned bite or missing teeth, we may recommend orthodontics or restorative dental procedures to correct the issue. In cases where bite force is concentrated on certain areas of your mouth, reshaping specific teeth can help redistribute pressure and alleviate discomfort.

Contact us today

to schedule an initial consultation & exam.

Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.

Frequently Asked Questions

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, and when this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it leads to Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). TMD can result in pain, discomfort, and difficulty with jaw movements. It’s essential to seek treatment early to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.

TMD can result from various factors, including:

  • Jaw injuries or joint diseases such as arthritis
  • Bruxism (tooth grinding or clenching) and muscle tension in the head or neck
  • Stress, which may either contribute to or be a result of TMD
  • Ill-fitting dentures, partial dentures, or certain bad habits (e.g., biting pens, fingernail biting)

With the wide range of causes, diagnosing TMD requires careful consideration. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, the best course of action is to book an appointment at our Dental Office in Kitchener for a comprehensive evaluation.

Headaches can have many causes, but TMD is a possible factor. Only a thorough examination at our Dental Office in Kitchener can determine whether TMD is contributing to your headaches. We’ll help you understand your symptoms and guide you to the most appropriate treatment options.

In most cases, TMD can be treated effectively with non-invasive methods, such as bite splints or therapy. Surgery is very rare and typically only considered when other treatments have not provided relief. Our priority is to offer you the least invasive, most effective treatments, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care.

Learn of the many ways we've enhanced the smiles and dental experiences of so many clients!

Very Happy With My Smile

Google Verified Patient Reviews

Maria Naguit
1 month ago
Thank you Forest Glen Dental for your dedication to providing excellent dental care. The entire team makes the practice a great place to visit.
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My experience was sooo wonderful. The staff was very pleasant and accomodating. Thank You Forest Glen Dental.
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apinksen24
5 months ago
I used to go to this dentist in the past and now coming back it feels great. The staff is very friendly and welcoming, they make you feel really comfortable as soon as you walk into the dentist office. I highly recommend people in the area to come into Forest Glen for their dental needs!!
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Dale Wilkinson
6 months ago
Had A great experience at Forest Glen Dental. All the staff were very friendly and professional. Will be back again!
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Damion Riley
6 months ago
Forest Glen Dental provides an exceptional experience from start to finish! The staff is welcoming, friendly, and professional, making every visit comfortable and stress-free. The dentists and hygienists take the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring I’m informed and at ease with each step of my care. The office is clean and modern, and they truly go above and beyond to make patients feel valued. I highly recommend Forest Glen Dental to anyone looking for quality dental care for you and your family:)
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Maria Naguit
1 month ago
Thank you Forest Glen Dental for your dedication to providing excellent dental care. The entire team makes the practice a great place to visit.
More
My experience was sooo wonderful. The staff was very pleasant and accomodating. Thank You Forest Glen Dental.
More
apinksen24
5 months ago
I used to go to this dentist in the past and now coming back it feels great. The staff is very friendly and welcoming, they make you feel really comfortable as soon as you walk into the dentist office. I highly recommend people in the area to come into Forest Glen for their dental needs!!
More
Dale Wilkinson
6 months ago
Had A great experience at Forest Glen Dental. All the staff were very friendly and professional. Will be back again!
More
Damion Riley
6 months ago
Forest Glen Dental provides an exceptional experience from start to finish! The staff is welcoming, friendly, and professional, making every visit comfortable and stress-free. The dentists and hygienists take the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring I’m informed and at ease with each step of my care. The office is clean and modern, and they truly go above and beyond to make patients feel valued. I highly recommend Forest Glen Dental to anyone looking for quality dental care for you and your family:)
More
Forest Glen Dental - Kitchener

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Call 548-490-3753