TMJ Treatment in London Dental Clinic: Preliminary Information
If you are experiencing temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome (TMJD), you can get help at the London Dental Clinic. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is associated with a number of conditions known as TMJD(s), and refers to a complicated and misunderstood group of conditions that involve pain in the TMJ area, its related muscles, and ear. One or both TMJ(s) may be involved in this problem. TMJDs interfere with someone’s capability to eat, chew, swallow, make facial expressions, speak and even breathe easily. Patients that have been told that they have TMJD(s) can possibly have additional medical symptoms and muscle, back, and postural problems that can go unnoticed. TMJDs are usually diagnosed by your general dentist, and in several cases, a periodontist or oral surgeon.
When you visit your London dentist, you will be given a complete dental examination. If you seem to be having a TMJD problem, your dentist will continue to collect additional data, such as performing a cranio-mandibular and postural examination. The dentist may press on certain muscle groups and determine if trigger points and so-called “hot spots” are present. These are signs of spasms and the muscles being over-contracted or overstretched. Impressions will also be taken of your mouth and stone study models will be poured and mounted on a dental articulator. The models, which are a representation of your mouth, will be thoroughly examined. You will also be asked numerous questions about your frequency of headache, or ringing in your ears, etc. After all of the data is collected, your dentist will recommend a course of treatment. Your dentist most likely will suggest a type of orthopaedic appliance to be worn at all times. This clear acrylic appliance is custom-designed for your specific needs, and will act as both a diagnostic aid and a conservative treatment appliance. The appliance should be fabricated as to allow your lower jaw to function in a relaxed, non-stressed position in relation to your upper teeth and the base of your skull. It will also give your TMJ(s) the ability to relax. For further information about TMJ and TMJDs, contact your London dentist!
