Solutions for TMJ in Stittsville, ON

Orthodontics can be used to address dental problems associated with a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), commonly called TMJ. Ottawa ON dentist, Dr. Ami Barakat, has advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ related disorders. He and his dedicated dental team help patients regain a bite that is comfortable, healthy and stable.

Dr. Barakat is a neuromuscular dentist. This discipline specializes in the correction of jaw misalignment at the temporomandibular joint, which produces a balanced bite. He offers a range of treatment options for patients with TMD.

Our solutions for TMJ and TMD include comprehensive orthodontics, Myobrace, Invisalign, oral appliances, and traditional braces. Depending on your situation, you may be recommended a single treatment or a combination of treatments.

TMJ Disorder in Children

Early evaluation in children at around the age of 7 is important. If your child has myofunctional habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting, they require early evaluation. Without early intervention, these habits can detrimentally affect the development of their bite.

Left untreated, these can lead to TMJ disorders that may require more extensive restorative dentistry later down the road. Identifying possible jaw development issues during a child’s growth phase can also allow for early orthodontic intervention to head off possible TMJ disorders.

Setting the stage for healthy jaw alignment and tooth development will have a lasting positive impact on your long-term oral health, and overall health and well being.

Treating TMJ with Orthodontics

For many patients, a dysfunctional bite is the root cause of their TMD-related symptoms and dental problems. This can be the result of jaw malformation, malocclusion, or recent trauma. Realigning your bite with orthodontics to reposition your teeth and/or jaw can restore your quality of life and long-term dental health.

Orthodontic Treatments for TMJ

• Traditional Braces: Traditional braces can address complex orthodontic concerns that affect the bite and teeth. They are the tried-and-true method of correcting malocclusion.
• Invisalign: A clear aligner system, Invisalign can discreetly correct malocclusion issues that may be causing TMJ related pain symptoms.
• Oral Appliance: Dr. Barakat offers several types of oral appliances and can help patients achieve a healthy bite through comprehensive treatment planning.

What Is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?

Temporomandibular joint disorder, abbreviated TMD and TMJ, is a condition that affects the joints on either side of your head. These joints rotate and move as necessary to allow you to speak and eat. However, pain in this area is quite common. TMD may occur because of an injury, stress, or dislocation. You may have TMD if you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms:

• Unexplained headaches or migraines
• Sore muscles in the jaw
• Tenderness around the ears and face
• Popping sounds coming from the jaw joint
• Teeth grinding
• Neck, shoulder, or jaw pain
• Tingling in the fingers
• Ringing in the ears
• Tooth misalignment
• Difficulty chewing or moving the jaw

Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ

Finding a solution for TMJ can be challenging. Before anything else, you’ll need to get a professional diagnosis. Dentists use a variety of tests to figure out the root cause of your symptoms. We may look at the position of your bite and use medical equipment to measure activity in the facial muscles. Once we know the specifics of your condition, we can begin discussing your treatment options. Other methods of diagnosing TMD include:

• X-rays
• Sonography
• Tracing instruments
• Electromyography

Treating TMJ Disorder in Children and Adults

At Villanova Dental Studio, we treat TMJ symptoms in both children and adults. Our patients come to us from Stittsville, Kanata, Ottawa, Carleton Place, and Carp looking for top-tier dental care. With years of experience under our belt, we strive to provide the TMD care you deserve. Regardless of the extent of your symptoms, we encourage you to visit us for a consultation.

Visit our dentist’s office in Stittsville, ON today. We serve orthodontics patients in Kanata, Ottawa, and surrounding communities.

TMJ Referral

Do you know someone suffering from a Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, also known as a TMD or TMJ disorder? Are they suffering from jaw pain, or frequent headaches in Ottawa, Ontario? Refer them to Villanova Dental Studio!

After a thorough examination, Dr.  Barakat will examine your neck, head and face, with a focus on the point where your jawbone connects to your skull. He will complete his comprehensive analysis with treatment recommendations. Since each person is unique, there is no “standard” treatment plan for TMD. Dr. Barakat may recommend a combination of treatments to match your situation. We will create a customized treatment plan for you.