Jaw pain is not normal.
If jaw pain is part of your everyday life, it may seem normal to you. The truth is, jaw pain is far from normal and may be a symptom of a condition called TMD from one or both of your TMJs. Those are the joints of your lower jaw, called TemporoMandibular Joints. When disease or misalignment occurs, the TMJ and surrounding area becomes inflamed — which is what causes pain and other symptoms.
- Headaches
- Earaches, tenderness around the ear
- Face or jaw pain and tenderness
- Muscle pain in your neck, shoulders and upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grinding jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning or opening your mouth
What are the signs of TMJ disorder (TMD)?
How do we diagnose and treat TMJ disorder?
Diagnosis
Treatment of TMD begins with a comprehensive clinical examination, to check your face, jaw, bite, joints, and teeth. During your appointment, we will check for pain and tenderness and listen for clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth, swallow, or chew. If the disorder is diagnosed, a bite splint or night guard is often recommended as the initial treatment.
Treatment and Relief
Our treatment application involves bite splints, which are custom-created plastic mouthpieces, designed to fit over your upper and/or lower teeth. These type of devices prevent the grinding and clenching that often causes or worsens TMD. The splint also realigns the jaw, removing stress on the surrounding area.
Alternative Treatment Options
If a misaligned bite or missing teeth are the cause of your symptoms, we may recommend orthodontics or restorative dental work. If your bite is placing undue pressure on the TMJ’s, we may suggest reshaping individual teeth to redistribute the bite force evenly.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patient Testimonials
Darcy and Heather Taylor
Dr. Cichon and his staff are absolutely amazing in every way. They go out of your their way to ensure you are comfortable, that you are aware of what is going on with your procedures or cleanings, they are funny, they are accommodating, and they are extremely professional and knowledgeable. I along with my entire family have been going here for years. They can do just about anything including cosmetic, hygiene, and all dental maintenance/problem-solving. My daughter and husband have complex needs due to a genetic condition and Dr. Cichon is...
Ian A.
Thank to Southport Dental Team. I appreciate all efforts especially in times of COVID-19. I’m sure it’s stressful. Everything runs like a well oiled machine. From the front desk to the hygienist Brookelyn. She is professional, fun, adds humour to ease my anxiety. Thank you Brookelyn. You are special and great in your field. Thank you for not killing me with mouth pain Dr. Dave and Dr.Kyle. I’ve had dental anxiety since childhood due to not a very nice dentist. I’m comfortable and in good spirits when I’m in the chair. Thank you. Happy Thanks...
Deb Sands
The front office staff, dental assistants and hygienists at Dr. Cichon's office are all top notch. They are professional, caring and friendly. And Dr. Cichon himself is one of the best dentists I have ever met. He took the time to explain the procedure I was having, what was going to happen and what to expect. His chair-side manner is kind and caring. I would gladly recommend Dr. Cichon and his team to anyone looking for a new dentist in south Calgary. Lovely people who care!
