TMJ Disorder Causes and Treatment in Vancouver
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull and plays a vital role in speaking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint becomes inflamed or dysfunctional, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)—a condition that causes jaw pain, stiffness, and limited movement. At Accord Dental Clinic in Kitsilano, we offer comprehensive care for TMJ disorders to help you regain comfort and function.
What Causes TMJ Pain?
Several factors may contribute to TMJ dysfunction:
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding and Clenching)
Grinding or clenching your teeth—especially during sleep—can place excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
Explore our night guard solutions to protect your teeth and jaw.
Jaw Trauma or Injury
Accidents, sports injuries, or direct impact to the jaw can damage the joint, resulting in pain and restricted movement.
Learn more about our oral surgery services.
Arthritis
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing joint degeneration and stiffness.
Stress and Muscle Tension
Chronic stress often leads to jaw clenching and increased muscle tension, which can worsen TMJ symptoms.
Consider our general dentistry services for routine care and stress-related evaluations.
Malocclusion (Misaligned Bite)
An improper bite can place uneven pressure on the TMJ, contributing to long-term joint strain.
We offer orthodontic treatment with invisible braces to help realign your bite.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Common signs of TMJ dysfunction include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Headaches or earaches
Limited jaw movement or locking
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a visit to our Kitsilano dental clinic.
TMJ Treatment Options at Accord Dental
We provide a range of evidence-based treatments tailored to your needs:
Custom Night Guards
Protect your teeth and reduce jaw strain with a professionally fitted night guard.
Orthodontic Correction
Realign your bite with discreet clear aligners to reduce TMJ stress. We often refer these cases out.
Physical Therapy
Targeted jaw exercises and manual therapy can improve mobility and reduce pain.
Medication and Botox
We may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or Botox injections for muscle relaxation in severe cases.
Stress Management
We guide patients toward lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques to reduce jaw tension.
Surgical Intervention
For advanced cases, we offer referrals for procedures such as arthroscopy or joint replacement.
Why Choose Accord Dental for TMJ Care?
Located in the heart of Kitsilano, Accord Dental Clinic offers personalized care backed by advanced technology and a compassionate team. Whether you're dealing with mild discomfort or chronic jaw pain, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your TMJ consultation.