Most people associate the orthodontist with largely cosmetic issues: adjusting overbites or underbites, all different kinds of braces for straightening the teeth and making our smiles beautiful.
But orthodontists like those at the Pacific West Dental Group can address problems that you may not associate with your beautiful smile at all. Orthodontics can help treat head and neck pain in Surrey, and other discomforts associated with TMJ.
What is TMJ?
TMJ, or the temporo-mandibular joint, is a part of the body that we exercise every time we chew or yawn or talk, and most of us pay it no attention. Yet, when the cartilage disc that causes pressure and stretching of the associated sensory nerves is displaced, pain and discomfort are the result.
Some people will hear a clicking sound, some will have ear pain, and many will have frequent head and neck aches. For some, the pain will be searing every time they talk or chew, and for others, it will be a low grade, but constant pain.
The pain can be felt in the temple, the teeth, the jaw, and even down into the neck. These kinds of problems, even if minor, can begin to affect our quality of life. When we are in pain, we are tense and we do not function to our highest potential.
Orthodontics Has Solutions
Orthodontists can address this problem of the jaw. Even jaw specialists will usually refer patients with TMJ disorders to see an orthodontist. Orthodontists can help determine a customized solution, like a mouth guard, or surgery if necessary. Each patient and their case will be different and benefit from a consultation with an orthodontist. Don’t wait to get treatment. Many people live for years with TMJ and neck and head pain, when simple solutions are within easy reach
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
