
You may have heard about TMJ from a friend or family member who is experiencing jaw pain. We all have the triangular-shaped temporomandibular joints in front our ears. They are lined with cartilage and move with a smooth, gliding motion. Those that function properly allow your mouth to open and close easily.
The temporomandibular joint is extremely sensitive to physical, emotional, and psychological stress. Even a minor change in habits can cause your bite and jaw muscles to become imbalanced, often resulting in exposed nerve endings and jaw or facial pain. TMJ disorder, or TMD, can lead to mild to severe symptoms and varying degrees of discomfort in your temple, ear, neck, and shoulders.
If you are experiencing TMD symptoms, you are not alone. The disorder is so common that Dr. Violette, Dre Sivret, and Dr. Mills screen every patient for TMJ dysfunction during regular exams. Should they find a problem, they can help you protect your teeth from further damage by discussing prevention techniques and suggesting therapies to correct it.
To accurately diagnose TMD, Dr. Violette uses advanced technology called a TENS unit. The TENS unit sends electromagnetic impulses to the jaw, promoting relaxation. He may also use condylography to measure the movements of the jaw. With a K7, he can record the results and determine the extent of damage.
The dentists might suggest a bite appliance to prevent jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism). The Fredericton Dental Center staff is committed to addressing your TMJ concerns and finding lifestyle solutions that will help alleviate the problem.
People who smile more are happier. People who are happier, smile more…let Fredericton Dental Center make you smile. Call our Fredericton dental office today to reserve a personal appointment with Dr. Violette, Dre Sivret, or Dr. Mills. We proudly serve patients from Fredericton, Grand Bay, Westfield, Woodstock, Miramichi, and St. Stephen, NB.