Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options | Calgary Dental Care
Understanding TMD & TMJ
What Are the Temporomandibular Joints?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are located on each side of your face, connecting the lower jaw to the skull. These small but powerful joints allow you to open and close your mouth, chew, and move your jaw from side to side. You can feel them by placing your fingers just in front of your ears and moving your lower jaw — they’re responsible for much of your mouth’s mobility and comfort during everyday functions like eating or speaking.
What Is TMD?
Understanding temporomandibular joints dysfunction
Causes & Symptoms of TMJ/TMD
What Causes TMD?
Common Symptoms of TMD
You might be experiencing TMD if you notice one or more of the following:
• Jaw pain when chewing, yawning, or talking (often worse in the morning or late afternoon)
• Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing your mouth
• Stiffness or temporary locking of the jaw
• Tooth sensitivity not caused by dental decay
• Earaches, headaches, or neck pain
If you experience these symptoms, speak with your dentist. They can assess your jaw movement, listen for joint sounds, and check for areas of tenderness. Depending on the results, you may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation.
How Is TMD Treated?
Many mild cases of TMD can be managed with conservative, non-invasive treatments. Your dentist may recommend simple lifestyle changes such as avoiding gum chewing and nail biting, eating softer foods, and practicing relaxation or stress-reduction techniques.
Dental Night Guards
Dental Night Guards are one of the most effective tools for TMD management. These custom-made appliances help prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and reduce pressure on the jaw joint. Wearing a night guard can protect your teeth from chips and fractures while easing muscle strain and morning soreness.
Botox Therapy
Botox is another option for managing TMD pain. Targeted Botox injections can relax overactive jaw muscles, relieve discomfort, and minimize clenching-related strain. Our Calgary dental team is a licensed provider of Botox Cosmetic® for restorative dental care and can answer any questions about this treatment.
Physical Therapy
In some cases, your dentist may also recommend physical therapy to strengthen the jaw muscles or prescribe a specialized oral appliance to prevent nighttime clenching.
Is TMD Permanent?
TMD symptoms can fluctuate over time, often worsening during periods of stress or tension. While it isn’t always a permanent condition, it can recur in cycles. Regular dental visits are key to managing symptoms and maintaining long-term comfort and jaw function. With proper care, most patients are able to significantly reduce pain and restore healthy jaw movement.
TMJ/TMD Relief & Treatments with Calgary Dentist
Book an Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort or suspect you may have TMD, contact our Calgary dental team today to schedule a consultation and discuss personalized treatment options.
we look forward to serving you
About Our Clinic
About Signal Hill Dental Centre
Signal Hill Dental Centre is a welcoming, full‑service dental clinic in southwest Calgary offering general, family, cosmetic and emergency dentistry in a comfortable environment. With more than 15 years of service to the local community, our experienced team is committed to providing honest, patient‑focused care and clear communication throughout every visit.
Our Amenities
We offer extended hours—open seven days a week, including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends—to make booking easy and convenient. As one of Calgary’s first clinics to adopt Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) as a standard hygienic treatment, we ensure comfortable, low‑impact cleanings with the latest Swiss‑certified technology.
Costs & Insurance
Additionally, our clinic provides direct insurance billing, transparent and up‑to‑date pricing, and same‑day emergency dental appointments—all designed to reduce stress and simplify your dental care experience.