TMJ and Occlusion

TMJ stands for ”temporomandibular joint,” or jaw joint. These are the joints in front of each ear 
that attach the lower jaw 
to the skull.

What causes TMJ/TMD?
In most cases TMD means that the lower jaw does not sit correctly in the joint. When the jaw is misaligned it may not provide the support the muscles in the face needed for chewing and swallowing. These muscles are then forced into a strained position, resulting in pain throughout the face, behind the eyes, head, neck, arms, shoulders, back and other parts of the body.

TMD can also cause, or contribute towards, grinding of teeth, clicking of the jaw, deafness, dizziness and vertigo, tinnitus, snoring and related airway problems. Unbalanced or misaligned jaws can keep the lips, tongue, face, tonsils and other parts of the body from functioning normally as well as affecting eating, speaking and drinking.

TMD & Headaches
It is now known that the majority of recurring headaches and migraines are related to Temperomandibular joint dysfunction. If the jaw does not sit correctly in the joint this can cause a painful or clicking joint which in turn may lead to headaches and migraines. One solution is to allow the jaw to reposition so that it sits correctly in the joint. If you suffer from persistent headaches and/or any of these symptoms it may well be that you have a jaw dysfunction.

TMD in women
TMD symptoms are more common in women due to their fluctuating levels of oestrogen, accounting for the cyclical nature of their symptoms, and why symptoms can become more severe at menopause. It is not normal to suffer with constant headaches - women in particular put up with unnecessary headaches and think it's normal. It isn't!

TMD in children
Children are especially sensitive to TMD and may show early signs with ear infections, lip, cheek, or finger biting, sucking or chewing, headaches, snoring, and grinding of their teeth at night.

How is TMD treated and what are the benefits?
By realigning the jaw and restoring the teeth, jaw and joints to their optimal positions the pain and symptoms that resulted from the imbalance may improve or even disappear.

Improve your appearance
The treatment can also provide significant results in enhancing the symmetry of your face, improving your lips as well as creating a broader smile.