The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull (the temporal bone). The “ball” of the lower jawbone, called the condyle, fits into the “socket” of the temporal bone, or the glenoid fossa. The entire joint is surrounded by muscles and ligaments that work together to keep the lower jaw in the correct position. A piece of cartilage, called an articular disc, acts as a shock absorber between the two bones.
TMD/TMJ
Dr. Rondeau & Dr. Sep – TMJ Treatment
Schedule a consultation at our London, Ontario office to discuss jaw pain relief options for your Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
TMJ Basics
When the joint is healthy, the articular disc stays between the condyle and the glenoid fossa at all times when the lower jaw opens and closes, allowing you to open wide without any discomfort or noise. A properly functioning TMJ also keeps the muscles of the head, neck and shoulders functioning relatively pain free. If the TMJ (jaw joint) is not functioning properly it will click when the patient opens and closes (dislocated jaw). If this problem is not corrected this can later lead to Lock Jaw which is extremely painful and should be avoided at all times. Early Treatment will prevent Lock Jaw. When the TM joint is dislocated painful symptoms can develop including:
What is TMD?
TMD means dysfunction of the TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) jaw joint.
Problems within the TMJ, Jaw clicking or locking
Happens when the top of the lower jaw bone is too close to the ear when the patient closes on their back teeth. The lower jaw bone presses on the nerves and blood vessels and causes numerous symptoms including:
- Headaches
- Neck problems
- Ear pain
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Stuffiness in the ears
If this is not corrected early the piece of cartilage between the jaw bone and the skull becomes displaced and can lead to osteoarthritis.
Muscle problems outside the TMJ (jaw joint)
Due to clenching and grinding, mostly at night.
TMD Treatment
Our office takes a conservative, non-surgical approach when treating patients with TMJ problems. In fact, 98% of our patients do not require surgery to treat their TMD.
Laser Therapy
Many TMJ (jaw joint) patients have sore muscles mainly due to clenching and grinding of their teeth.
MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy
MLS Laser Therapy uses a warm light almost like a heating pad, to significantly reduce pain and inflammation in the sore muscles.
TMD-Related Problems
Dental conditions such as the lower jaw too far back, deep overbite, narrow upper jaw or upper front teeth that are tipped backwards can cause the TMJ to become dislocated.
NIGHTTIME TEETH GRINDING
Grinding your teeth at night, also known as bruxism, is very common and can cause a host of dental issues as well as persistent pain and discomfort. The solution is to wear a special night appliance that resolves the issue.
BITE PROBLEMS
If your teeth do not come together correctly when you bite down, it can cause muscle spasms, headaches, earaches and other painful symptoms. This can also happen if your jaw moves side to side or forward. A bite adjustment can correct the problem.