Covering All Aspects of Jaw Issues

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS

Address your jaw discomfort with our comprehensive TMJ solutions.

TMJ Affects 20-30% of Australian Adults

Despite being a widespread issue, many people suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ or TMD) disorders remain unaware of their condition. This lack of awareness can often result in delayed treatment, exacerbating symptoms and potentially leading to more serious health complications. Unaddressed TMJ disorders can significantly impact the quality of life, interfering with basic functions such as eating, talking, and even sleeping. Understanding TMJ disorders and their prevalence is the first step towards successful management and treatment.

The team at Oracare is dedicated to educating patients and providing comprehensive care to alleviate the discomfort and dysfunction associated with TMJ disorders.

What is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly referred to as TMJ, is a condition affecting the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones in your skull. This joint is integral to speaking, chewing, and yawning. Therefore, any disruption in its function can significantly impact one’s daily life.

TMJ disorders can be triggered by several factors, such as jaw injuries, arthritis, or genetics. Certain habits, like teeth grinding or clenching, may also contribute to the development of this condition. While TMJ disorders are often painful, our team is here to offer solutions aimed at relieving discomfort and restoring the proper functioning of your jaw.

Symptoms of TMJ

The symptoms of TMJ disorders can vary from person to person but commonly include persistent pain or tenderness around the jaw, especially when speaking or eating. Others may experience an aching sensation around the ear, facial pain, or difficulty chewing. In some cases, the disorder may cause the jaw to lock, making it tough to open or close the mouth.

It’s essential to note that these symptoms may also relate to other conditions. Therefore, if you’re experiencing any of these signs, we advise scheduling an appointment for a thorough examination and accurate diagnosis.

Treatments for TMJ

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ disorders, as the most effective approach depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Some patients may find relief with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes, such as jaw exercises, stress management techniques, and modifying their diet to include softer foods.

When conservative treatments aren’t enough, we may recommend other interventions. These can include dental splints or mouth guards, which can help prevent grinding or clenching that often aggravates TMJ disorders. In more severe cases, we might suggest physical therapy, medications, or even surgical procedures. Regardless of the treatment approach, our primary aim is to alleviate discomfort and improve jaw function, enhancing our patient’s overall quality of life.

Book A TMJ Consultation in Thornlands

If you’re experiencing persistent jaw discomfort or other symptoms suggestive of a TMJ disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. During your TMJ consultation, we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health, discuss your symptoms, and create a tailored treatment plan.

At every step of the way, we’ll ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable with the proposed treatment options. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and provide the highest quality of care.

Let us help you regain comfort, function, and peace of mind with our expert TMJ solutions. Book your consultation online with our team today.

Our Services

At Oracare Dental & Facial Aesthetics, we offer a diverse range of treatments and services designed to cater to your unique dental and aesthetic needs. From emergency dental care to preventative measures, aesthetic procedures to major dentistry, and specialised facial aesthetics – we have got you covered.

Comprehensive Dental Care

  • Gum disease, medically known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that negatively impacts the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. Learn more

  • Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure targeted at preserving a tooth that has been severely compromised due to decay or injury. This treatment aims to alleviate pain, eliminate infection and preserve the natural tooth structure. Learn more

General Dentistry

  • A dental filling is a widely used restorative procedure. When a tooth becomes damaged by decay or fracture, it’s necessary to remove the affected part of the tooth to prevent further complications. Learn more

  • A routine check-up and clean is the first step to maintaining a healthy smile; prevention is far more effective at saving you time and money in the long run. Seeing your dentist twice yearly for a check-up and clean is recommended. Learn more

  • A night splint, also known as an occlusal splint or a night guard, is a specially tailored dental appliance worn over your teeth to guard them against teeth grinding (bruxism), clenching and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It’s a comfortable, non-invasive solution to protect your health while you sleep. Learn more

  • A sports mouthguard is a protective device specifically designed to safeguard your teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue to prevent a range of oral injuries such as: knocked-out teeth, broken jaws and cut lips. At Oracare Dental, we offer custom-made mouthguards with a 3 to 5 business day turnaround. Learn more

Major Dentistry

  • Gum disease, medically known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that negatively impacts the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. Learn more

  • Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure targeted at preserving a tooth that has been severely compromised due to decay or injury. This treatment aims to alleviate pain, eliminate infection and preserve the natural tooth structure. Learn more

  • Tooth extraction can be required for various reasons. Severe tooth decay that reaches the tooth’s inner part (pulp) is a common cause. Untreated infections in the pulp can lead to dental abscesses and further damage. Learn more

  • Crowns and bridges play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Crowns work to protect, cover, and restore the function of damaged teeth, while bridges effectively fill in gaps left by missing teeth, preventing remaining teeth from drifting out of place and helping maintain normal tooth alignment. Learn more

  • Dental implants are cutting-edge dental devices that function as artificial roots, furnishing a robust and resilient foundation for replacement teeth. They are considered a highly effective and long-lasting solution for individuals who have lost one or more natural teeth. Learn more

Facial Aesthetics

  • Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure aimed at lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surfaces. It can’t make a complete colour change, but it can lighten the existing shade. Learn more

  • Discover a swift and impactful way to upgrade your smile with same-day veneers. Our advanced technology and skilled dental professionals ensure quality results in a single visit, saving you time without compromising on excellence. Learn more

  • A smile makeover is a comprehensive treatment plan that focuses on improving the aesthetics of your smile. This personalised process takes into consideration your facial appearance, skin tone, hair colour, teeth (colour, width, length, shape and tooth display), gum tissue, and lips to develop your ideal smile. Learn more

  • Muscle relaxants are medicines used to relieve muscle spasms and discomfort. They work by blocking nerve signals in your muscles, reducing the tension and allowing them to relax. Learn more

Sedation Options

  • We’re proud to offer a wide range of orthodontic services tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. From Invisalign to ClearCorrect clear aligners that provide a discreet alternative to traditional braces, we have options to suit every lifestyle and goal. Learn more

  • Oral surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to treat various dental and oral health conditions. From removing impacted wisdom teeth and placing dental implants, to treating oral infections and conducting biopsies of suspicious areas, oral surgery plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functionality of your mouth. Learn more

  • Bite rehabilitation, a specialised branch of dentistry, focuses on restoring the bite to a natural and healthy state. When your bite is misaligned – a condition also known as malocclusion – it can lead to various oral health concerns. Learn more

  • Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly referred to as TMJ, is a condition affecting the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones in your skull. This joint is integral to speaking, chewing, and yawning. Therefore, any disruption in its function can significantly impact one’s daily life. Learn more

  • People suffering from sleep apnoea might not even realise they have it. It’s often recognised by others witnessing the individual struggling to breathe during sleep or by a person feeling unrefreshed after waking, despite having a full night’s sleep. Learn more