TMJ / TMD in Burlington: Assessment and Treatment Options
TMJ treatment starts with finding out what is behind your jaw pain. TMD (temporomandibular disorders) affects the jaw joint and chewing muscles, and Dr. Jared Nabeta or Dr. Kaitlin McCann, both general dentists, assesses it and explains the options, which may include habit guidance, working alongside a physiotherapist and, for some patients, therapeutic botulinum toxin A (a neuromodulator). No referral is needed, and you decide after hearing the risks and alternatives.
Learn about neuromodulator treatment for TMD, jaw pain and physician-diagnosed migraine
How TMD Can Affect the Jaw, Teeth and Head
TMD is a broad term for conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the jaw muscles and the surrounding tissues. Common signs include:
- Jaw pain and dysfunction: pain in the jaw, face or neck that can make eating, speaking or yawning uncomfortable.
- Headache related to TMD: the jaw muscles can contribute to headaches and facial pain. Migraine is diagnosed by a physician.
- Jaw locking and clicking: the joint may click or lock, which can make chewing difficult.
- Tooth wear: clenching and grinding can wear down enamel or chip teeth.
- Neck, shoulder and ear discomfort: the jaw and neck muscles are closely connected.
TMD Treatment Options
At Nabeta Dentistry, a general dentist assesses TMD and jaw pain and explains the options that may suit you, which can include habit guidance, working alongside a physiotherapist and, for some patients, muscle-relaxing injections into the jaw muscles. No referral is needed. Book a TMD consultation to discuss your options.
TMD Treatment Options and Injections: Common Questions
TMD and jaw pain are treated based on what your assessment finds. Options can include self-care, habit guidance, physiotherapy and, for some patients, muscle-relaxing injections into the jaw muscles (therapeutic neuromodulator treatment). A general dentist explains the risks and alternatives of each. No referral is needed. Our office is at Unit 3, 2202 Industrial St, Burlington, ON L7P 0N6, and patients come to us from Oakville, Waterdown, Hamilton and Milton.
What is TMD?
TMD stands for temporomandibular disorders, a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint (TMJ), the chewing muscles and nearby tissues. Common signs include jaw pain, clicking or locking, headache related to the jaw muscles, and tooth wear from clenching or grinding.
How is TMJ jaw pain treated?
Treatment depends on what the assessment finds. Options may include self-care, habit guidance, working alongside a physiotherapist or your physician and, for some patients, therapeutic neuromodulator treatment given by injection after a full assessment. Choosing no treatment is also an option.
Do you offer botulinum toxin A for TMJ?
Yes, for some patients with TMD or jaw-muscle pain. It is a prescription neuromodulator given by injection after a full assessment, provided by Dr. Jared Nabeta and Dr. Kaitlin McCann, both general dentists. It is one option among several, not a first step for everyone.
Can TMJ problems cause migraines?
TMD can contribute to headache, and some people have both TMD and migraine. Migraine itself is diagnosed by a physician. We assess the jaw and, for physician-diagnosed migraine, can provide treatment alongside your physician.
What are the possible side effects?
Possible side effects include tenderness, bruising or swelling where the injection is given, headache, and temporary weakness or tiredness when chewing. The effect is temporary. Your dentist reviews the side effects that apply to you and the alternatives before any decision.
Do I need a referral, and do you submit insurance claims?
No referral is needed for a TMD or jaw pain consultation. We are a fee-for-service office, and we submit claims to your insurance for you; coverage depends on your plan. Call 905-639-6701 to book.
Read more: Jaw clenching and teeth grinding treatment · Treatment for physician-diagnosed migraine, TMD and jaw pain · Jaw clenching: causes, signs and treatment options
Our 3-Step Consultation Process
1. Consultation: We review your medical, dental and headache history and examine your jaw joint, chewing muscles and bite. 2. Treatment plan: Your dentist explains the options that may suit you, with their risks and alternatives, so you can make an informed decision. 3. Treatment and follow-up: If you choose treatment, we explain aftercare and book a follow-up visit.