So what is TMJ and what are the causes of TMJ?
TMJ and its related muscle disorders are a set of conditions causing dysfunction and pain in the jaw, specifically the temporomandibular joint. TMJ can present as malfunctions in bite and jaw alignment that cause an array of conditions including:
- Jaw pain and discomfort in Vancouver
- Headaches
- Loss of sleep
- Ear aches and ringing sounds
- Limited jaw movements
- Worn out teeth
- Locking of the jaw
If you have TMJ, you’re not alone. Jaw trauma has been pointed out as the most common cause of TMJ, but it’s also quite possible that stress, anxiety, and poor dental health contribute to TMJ. Clenching the jaw or grinding your teeth will also exacerbate the problem. Even if you only experience occasional bouts of TMJ pain or discomfort, the symptoms warrant a visit to an orthodontist in Vancouver.
A Problem That Grows Worse
At first, you may only experience TMJ symptoms occasionally, with discomfort occurring in cycles in the form of headaches, ear aches, or some tenderness in the jaw area. Others, however, develop long-term symptoms that if left untreated, could lead to more serious health issues.
TMJ can leave permanent nerve damage in the jaw area, which could lead to limited jaw mobility thus affecting chewing motion. For those experiencing substantial TMJ pain, sleeping difficulties and discomfort can have long-term health effects. If you suffer from TMJ, the symptoms themselves will likely contribute to increased tension and pain.
If you’re experiencing some or all of these symptoms and still unsure about your condition, consult an orthodontist for a proper diagnosis. There are several options for TMJ treatment through orthodontics. Ask your orthodontist and get relief.
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
