TMJ Treatment

TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull, causing headaches and discomfort in the jaw and face.

Description

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the jaw and can cause pain and discomfort. It is a common condition that can be treated with the right care and management.

Buccal massage, which can help alleviate the cause of TMJ disorder, can have the positive side-effect of providing a ‘natural face lift’ due to improved circulation, skin texture, and muscle tone.

Symptoms of TMJ disorder

Results

Pain relief: Buccal massage can help to release tension in the muscles of the face and cheeks, which can reduce pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as TMJ and tension headaches.
Improved range of motion: By releasing tension in the muscles of the face and cheeks, Buccal massage can help to improve range of motion in the jaw, allowing for greater flexibility and ease of movement.
Increased circulation: Buccal massage can help to improve circulation in the face and cheeks, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation
Reduced wrinkles: By improving circulation, Buccal massage can also help to reduce wrinkles, leaving the face looking youthful and revitalized.
Stress relief: Buccal massage can be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience that can help to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Improves blood flow and lymphatic flow
Improves skin texture, muscle tone, and facial contour
Reduces swelling and dark circles under the eyes
Helps relieve psycho-emotional blockages
Reduces nasolabial folds and jowls

Pregnancy Safe?

Depends on circumstance

Practitioners

Direct Billing Possible?

Yes, depends on circumstance

Locations Available

Contraindictions

There are certain contraindications or conditions that may prevent the use of certain treatments for TMJ disorder. Some contraindications may include:

Active infection or inflammation in the jaw or surrounding area
Certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or allergies to certain medications
Pregnancy (some treatments may not be recommended for pregnant women)
Osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions that may make specific treatments, such as surgery, too risky
Psychological conditions that may impact the ability to follow through with a treatment plan
Advanced stages of TMJ disorder that may not respond well to specific treatments
Inability to tolerate the discomfort associated with particular treatment methods
Failure of previous treatments

Buccal massage as a treatment for TMJ disorder

TMJ is a complex condition with multiple causes, from dental problems and injuries to the jaw or face to stress and genetics. But the good news is that numerous treatment options are available, including buccal massage, self-care measures, medications, physical therapy, and even surgery.

With the proper treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms of TMJ and regain control of your daily life.

TMJ affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull. It is caused by a misalignment between three main components: the position of the jaw joint, the functioning of the jaw muscles, and the fit/occlusion of the teeth.

An imbalance between the three components may lead to dental complications, like cracks, fractures, or chips; problems with the bones and gums, such as recession or loss of bone tissue; troubles in the joint, such as noise, arthritis, and locking; and muscular pains.

This lack of balance may result in different habits, some of which the individual may not be aware of, such as clenching the jaws, grinding the teeth, or even compensatory postures. Over time, this can cause increasingly severe issues if unaddressed.

Dr. Kristina Mokhir, ND

Chilliwack Naturopathic Doctor

Specializing in TMJ Treatment

What is a TMJ disorder?

TMJ is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. The TMJ allows the jaw to move up and down and side to side, enabling us to speak, chew, and yawn.

Unfortunately, TMJ disorders can cause many symptoms that can significantly impact one’s daily life, including:

Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
Difficulty or discomfort when opening the mouth wide
A popping or clicking sound when opening the mouth or chewing
A locked jaw that makes it difficult to open or close the mouth
A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
Headaches or earaches
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Dizziness
Facial pain
Swelling on the side of the face
Pain in or around the ear
Trouble sleeping
Tired or sore jaw muscles
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Neck and shoulder pain.

Causes of TMJ Disorders

The causes of TMJ can vary and can result from multiple factors. However, some of the most common causes include the following:

Dental problems, including misaligned teeth, missing teeth, or a poor bite, can strain the TMJ and lead to pain and discomfort.

Trauma or injury to the jaw, head, or face
Stress
Arthritis or other degenerative joint conditions
Genetics
Stress, which can lead to clenching or grinding of the teeth
Misaligned bite or missing teeth
Teeth grinding or jaw clenching habits
Connective tissue disorders
Bruxism
Poor posture
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
Poor dental work
Certain medical conditions
Some medications.

It’s important to understand that it’s usually a combination of factors that lead to TMJ rather than a single cause. Therefore, a proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is the first step to determining the root causes of the disorder.

It’s essential to be aware of the symptoms to address them early on. Early detection and treatment can significantly help manage the condition and reduce its discomfort and impact on daily life.