Your Guide to TMJ/TMD

What is TMJ?

TMD otherwise known as Temperomandibular Disorder is when the Temperomandibular Joint (TMJ) and its surrounding muscles and ligaments are not functioning as they should be.

The exact cause of TMJ disorders is not known, but issues with the joint can arise from:

  • injury to jaw, the joint itself or a heavy blow leading to whiplash affecting muscles of head and neck

  • grinding and clenching teeth - puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ

  • arthritis in the joint

  • stress causing you to tighten facial muscle and jaw to clench teeth

  • orthodontics

TMJ Introduction

Why do I clench my teeth?

Clenching or bruxism can occur for a variety of reasons, some being:

  1. Sleep-disordered breathing - if you have sleep apnea or UARS you tend to not have enough oxygen during sleep, so your body tends to move the mandible (or lower jaw) forward in your sleep to expand airways and increase oxygen intake

  2. Stress - during stressful times, the body tends to exert more force on the teeth and jaw by clenching

  3. Side effect of SSRI medications - anti-depressants and medications like lexapro have a common side effect of increasing the amount of clenching

  4. Stability - clenching the jaw is another way of bringing a sense of ‘stability’ to the body. Postural issues play a role in TMD, so if one shoulder is higher than the other or one hip is higher, the jaw clenches as a way of stabilising itself, which leads to TMJ disorders.

  5. Hypermobility - if you have Ehler-Danlos Syndrome, you may be more hypermobile and have overly relaxed joints. This can cause your temperomandibular joint to dislocate and click/pop

  6. Trauma - whiplash from accidents or injury to head and neck region can cause neck strain which can lead to TMJ dysfunction, TMD.

How do I know if I have TMD/TMJ?

If you have the following symptoms, you may have TMD:

  • Pain or tenderness in face, neck, shoulder, jaw joint, when you speak or eat

  • Having problems opening mouth wide

  • Jaw that gets constantly ‘stuck’ or locked

  • Clicking and popping sounds when you open mouth

  • trouble chewing or uncomfortable teeth resting position

  • vertigo, headaches or migraines

  • dizziness, earaches, ear ringing

  • tired jaw

  • nausea

  • family history of TMJ

  • pain in either jaw joint

  • loss of hearing

  • pain in, around or behind eyes

  • blurry vision

  • hearing grating noises

For reference, this is the correct position for your teeth to be in:

Malocclusions (Bite Problems)

Can you treat TMD/TMJ?

TMJ treatment varies from person to person.

Here at Pain Free Dentist Sydney, Dr Lisa Chong specialises in treating TMJ in a 3-dimensional manner to ensure there is the least possible pain present. While others may focus on reducing the pressure on the teeth from clenching, Dr Lisa aims to guide your jaw back to its correct, original position.

Think you have TMJ or want to consult about it? Call us at 02 9558 8988 or email info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to book your consultation today.


Anxious about dentists? Try Sleep Dentistry

Dr. Chong and a dental nurse supporting a dental anxiety patient, who required Penthrox sedation

What is sleep dentistry?

Sleep dentistry is when patients are administered medication or intravenous sedation to relax them for procedures.

Who should get sleep dentistry?

Patients that are:

  • anxious

  • have low pain tolerance

  • sore gums

  • strong gag reflex

  • complex procedures needed

Are you really asleep with sleep dentistry?

Aside from general anaesthesia, you are actually conscious for most of sleep dentistry!

Level 1: Minimal sedation - fully conscious but more relaxed than usual

Level 2: Moderate sedation - awake but won’t remember most of procedure and speech can be slurred

Level 3: Deep sedation - almost unconscious but can still be awakened

Level 4: General Anaesthesia - fully unconscious, best for complex procedures to be done.

Where can I get sleep dentistry?

At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we offer penthrox whistle to relax you during your treatment. IV sedation is also a viable option at our clinic.

Interested in getting sleep dentistry? Call us at 02 9558 8988 or email info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to arrange for it today

A Painless Journey: Exploring Root Canal Treatment, Chipped Teeth, and Emergency Dental Care at Pain-Free Dentist Sydney

When it comes to dental health, nothing is more essential than ensuring a pain-free experience. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of root canal treatment, chipped teeth, and toothaches, and discover how Pain-Free Dentist Sydney is your ultimate destination for top-notch dental care. Whether you're seeking a dentist near you, emergency dental care, or a same-day appointment, our team of skilled professionals is here to provide you with a comfortable and pain-free journey towards a healthy smile.

1. Understanding Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that becomes necessary when the pulp of your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay or trauma. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing the tooth to prevent future infections. While root canals have a reputation for being painful, rest assured that Pain-Free Dentist Sydney is dedicated to ensuring a virtually painless experience for all patients.

Root canal treatments have come a long way in recent years. Modern dental techniques, advancements in anesthesia, and sedation options have made the process more comfortable than ever. At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, our team of highly skilled dentists will thoroughly explain the procedure, answer all your questions, and address any concerns you might have. We will also tailor the treatment to suit your unique needs, ensuring you experience minimal discomfort throughout the process.

2. The Benefits of a Pain-Free Experience

At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, our primary focus is on providing our patients with a pain-free dental journey. We understand that dental anxiety is a common concern and can prevent many individuals from seeking the dental care they need. Our team is committed to alleviating your fears and making your visit stress-free.

To achieve a pain-free experience, our dental practice incorporates various approaches. From the moment you step into our modern and inviting clinic, we strive to create a relaxing atmosphere to put you at ease. Our friendly staff members are trained to provide compassionate care and support throughout your visit. Our dentists will take the time to discuss your treatment plan, ensuring that you are fully informed about every step of the process. Additionally, we offer sedation dentistry options for those who need extra help in overcoming dental anxiety or have a low pain tolerance.

3. Dealing with Chipped Teeth

A chipped tooth can be distressing and may lead to sensitivity, pain, and cosmetic concerns. Whether your chipped tooth resulted from a sports injury or biting into something hard, seeking prompt dental care is crucial. At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, we offer expert solutions for chipped teeth, including dental bonding, veneers, or crowns, restoring your tooth's strength and appearance.

If you've chipped a tooth, it's essential to visit our dental practice as soon as possible, even if the damage seems minor. Leaving a chipped tooth untreated can lead to more severe issues, such as further cracks, decay, or infection. Our skilled dentists will carefully examine your chipped tooth to determine the best course of action.

For minor chips or cosmetic concerns, dental bonding may be the ideal solution. This process involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected area, reshaping the tooth, and creating a natural-looking result. For more significant chips or structural damage, dental veneers or crowns may be recommended. Veneers are thin shells custom-made to fit over the front surface of the tooth, while dental crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth, providing both protection and aesthetic improvement.

4. Alleviating Toothaches with Emergency Dental Care

Toothaches can strike at any time and can be debilitating, affecting your daily life. At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies, and we provide same-day appointments for patients experiencing severe toothaches. Our emergency dental care services are designed to promptly address your dental needs, relieving your pain and restoring your oral health.

A toothache can result from various issues, such as dental decay, gum disease, a cracked tooth, or an abscess. Regardless of the cause, it's essential to seek immediate dental attention when experiencing a toothache. Our team will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to identify the underlying problem accurately. Once the cause is determined, our skilled dentists will discuss the available treatment options with you and work to relieve your pain as quickly as possible.

5. The Importance of Same-Day Appointments

Having access to same-day appointments can make all the difference during a dental emergency. Pain-Free Dentist Sydney offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate urgent cases promptly. Whether it's a toothache, chipped tooth, or any other dental concern, our team is committed to providing the care you need when you need it most.

To schedule a same-day appointment, simply contact our dental practice as soon as you experience a dental emergency or discomfort. Our friendly staff will do their best to fit you into our schedule at your earliest convenience. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, and our goal is to provide you with prompt, reliable care to alleviate your pain and address your dental issue effectively.

Conclusion

When it comes to dental care, Pain-Free Dentist Sydney stands out as the go-to private dental practice that prioritizes your comfort and well-being. Doctor Lisa has 20 years of experience in dental practice and possesses excellent skills which every patient of ours has reviewed and provided feedback on. From root canal treatments to addressing chipped teeth and toothaches, our team of skilled professionals is here to ensure you experience a pain-free journey to a healthier smile. With a commitment to a painless experience, emergency dental care, and same-day appointments, we are your trusted partners in achieving optimal dental health.

Remember, if you're searching for a "dentist near me" who can provide a pain-free experience and address your dental concerns promptly, look no further than Pain-Free Dentist Sydney. Your dental health is our priority, and we are excited to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve. Schedule an appointment with us today and experience the difference of exceptional dental care with a gentle touch.