The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is located at the back of the jawline and connects your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. This joint plays a large role in the daily function of your mouth. Unfortunately, the TMJ is also very susceptible to the development of painful joint disorders. TMJ disorders can be so severe that chewing can become extremely difficult or even impossible — some TMJ patients report symptoms as severe as a locked jaw joint, making any movement of the jaw unbearably painful. Other TMJ symptoms include
- Headaches or dizziness
- Earaches, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears
- Difficulty or intense pain when chewing, yawning, or opening the mouth
- Popping or clicking sounds when opening the mouth
- Jaws locking or catching when opening and closing the mouth
Our team has years of experience diagnosing and treating disorders of the
temporomandibular joint. Dr. Esmail’s specific training in the restoration of oral and
facial function offers him the insight and experience to develop and implement
successful TMJ therapies, and he will work with you to develop the best plan for
treatment.
It is not always clear why or how a patient has developed a TMJ disorder, but the
following causes can all contribute to TMJ problems:
- Jaw, neck, or head injuries
- Arthritis
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Displacement of the joint’s disk
Once an evaluation confirms a diagnosis of TMJ disorder, Dr. Esmail will determine the proper course of treatment which is often a combination of self-care (such as the use of a night guard), medications, and steroid injections into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. As a last resort, corrective surgery may be recommended if more conservative treatments do not successfully alleviate the condition. At Abbotsford Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Centre, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a better quality of life, free from the pain caused by TMJ disorders.
TMJ Treatment in Abbotsford, BC
There are various treatment options that Dr. Esmail can utilize to provide his patients with a long-term solution for the muscle spasms and pain of a TMJ disorder. If you suspect you have a TMJ disorder or have questions about any of the procedures we offer at our practice, please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Esmail. Our team appreciates the opportunity to care for you at Abbotsford Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Centre.