FAQs

1. What is TMJ syndrome?
TMJ syndrome is a condition that affects the temporal mandibular joint or the TMJ. This condition happens when the joint becomes abnormal in shape due to arthritis or injuries. If you are suffering from TMJ syndrome, then the muscles in your jaw will become stiff causing pain or difficulty to mouth movement.

2. Who suffers from TMJ syndrome?
Millions of people around the world are affected by this condition. However, TMJ syndrome affects each gender differently. For men, they suffer more damage and wear. But, in women, TMJ syndrome is much more painful.

3. What are the symptoms of TMJ syndrome?
Although TMJ syndrome is associated with headaches and pain around the face, some symptoms are not painful. Some of the symptoms include clicking jaw when you open or close your mouth, teeth grinding while sleeping, worn teeth and ringing in the ears.

4. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?
Yes. The symptoms associated with TMJ syndrome can be treated with pain killers in the short-term. However, it is important to remember that unless the root of the problem is properly treated, the headaches will continue until proper treatment is delivered.

5. What is the effective treatment method used for TMJ syndrome?
Here at Glebe Dental Group, we offer different treatments for TMJ syndrome. We will first do a check-up during your initial consultation and depending on the severity of your case, we will recommend the right course of action which can cure the condition. We also offer orthotic therapy which can correct the alignment of the jaw in a gentle and painless manner.

6. Are there any home remedies for TMJ syndrome?
Yes. The symptoms associated with TMJ syndrome can be very painful. In order to alleviate the symptoms or at least prevent the frequency of the symptoms appearing, you may want to do some jaw exercises. Pain relievers can help but you need to consult your doctor first. Keep in mind that home remedies to relieve the symptoms of TMJ syndrome are not a permanent solution.

7. Are there any ways to prevent TMJ syndrome from developing?
Although there are ways to prevent TMJ syndrome from developing at a very young age, there is virtually no way to prevent it from developing later on in life. To prevent TMJ syndrome, you need to avoid trauma on the jaw, repetitive unconscious movement of the jaw, tooth grinding, excessive gum chewing, jaw thrusting, and limiting the size of the foods you eat. Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis can cause TMJ syndrome.

8. Are there any other treatments aside from orthotic therapy to treat TMJ syndrome?
Another way to treat TMJ syndrome besides orthotic therapy is through the restoration of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Jaw stretching and relaxation exercises can also help in treating this condition along with mandibular repositioning devices. There are also surgical procedures that can be done to reposition the jaws correctly.

9. Are there any symptoms about TMJ syndrome that I should watch out for?
During its early stages, pain will be non-existent. However, there are uncomfortable symptoms associated with TMJ syndrome, such as jaw clenching, teeth grinding, locking jaw, clicking or popping jaw, worn or chipped teeth, and inflammation of the dental pulp. When you experience these symptoms, it is very important that you should consult your dentist. They have the necessary equipment and knowledge to diagnose TMJ syndrome and treat it.

10. Who are qualified to treat TMJ syndrome?
Any doctor is qualified to treat TMJ syndrome. However, because TMJ syndrome is associated with jaw misalignment, dentists are usually the people you should turn to for treatment. They are highly qualified in diagnosing the condition, and they also have the necessary knowledge, techniques and equipment to treat TMJ syndrome. However, only some dentists have the tools and experience to adequately diagnose and treat TMJ syndrome. Glebe Dental Group is one of the few practices in Sydney with the ability to do so.