If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, popping/clicking noises, or limited mouth opening, you may have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Getting an accurate diagnosis is critical, as is finding knowledgeable TMJ specialists for effective treatment. Fortunately, expert care is available right here in Okotoks. Read on to learn how an experienced TMJ dentist in Okotoks can help resolve your symptoms.
Understanding TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull on both sides. TMJ conditions involve misalignment or dysfunction of these joints, often caused by arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, orthodontic issues, and stress. TMJ disorders can make simple tasks like eating, speaking, and yawning painful. In severe cases, symptoms may affect your quality of life.
Why You Need a Specialist
While some general dentists treat TMJ issues, patients with moderate to severe symptoms often benefit most from seeing a dedicated TMJ specialist. Here’s how seeing a specialist ensures you get the most effective care:
- Advanced training and expertise in jaw issues – They understand the intricacies of TMJ anatomy and dysfunction.
- Access to advanced diagnostic tools – Specialists use things like CT scans, joint vibration analysis, and jaw tracking to pinpoint the problem.
- Knowledge of emerging treatments – They stay on top of the latest, proven TMJ therapies.
- Experience treating complex cases – Cases that haven’t responded to standard treatments often find relief with a specialist’s help.
- Coordinated care – They work directly with your other health providers for comprehensive treatment.
TMJ Treatment Options
The right specialist will thoroughly evaluate your condition first before creating a customized treatment plan. Nonsurgical, conservative options they may recommend include:
- Stabilization splints
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Botox injections
- Stress reduction techniques
- Occlusal adjustment
- Orthotics
- Trigger point injections
For advanced cases, specialists may discuss minimally invasive or surgical interventions like arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, disc repositioning, joint replacement, etc. Their extensive expertise allows them to determine what’s suitable for your situation.
Are you searching for a dentist in Okotoks, AB? Cimarron Dental Wellness, provides quality family dental care in one place. Our Okotoks dentist is accepting new patients. We aim to deliver healthy smiles to our patients. Our dentist near you treats patients of all ages. We provide a wide range of dental services exams, teeth whitening, Laser dentistry, sedation dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants, veneers, crowns, dental bridges, TMJ treatment, tooth-coloured fillings, velscope screening, root canals, gum and tooth contouring, dental checkups and many more treatments.
Get Relief at Our TMJ Specialty Practice
If you’re suffering from agonizing TMJ symptoms, our specialty clinic has the advanced tools and experience to help. Call today to schedule a comprehensive exam so we can start mapping out your treatment plan. With tailored care from our TMJ specialists in Okotoks, you can finally enjoy relief!
Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces for adults and teens in Okotoks. As a dentist in Okotoks offering Invisalign clear aligners, patients often ask what treatment is like. Here is a detailed overview of the Invisalign experience from start to finish.
Initial Consultation
The first step is an initial consultation at my Okotoks dental office. We’ll discuss your goals for treatment and examine your teeth thoroughly. Digital scans and x-rays of your teeth are taken to map out your unique Invisalign treatment plan. We’ll also discuss estimated treatment time and cost and answer any questions you have.
Custom Aligner Design
The digital scanned images are used to create a precise 3D simulation of your teeth. Based on the desired movements, Invisalign software maps out each step needed to straighten your smile. These steps are translated into your custom set of clear aligner trays. The total number of trays depends on your case.
Receiving the Aligners
Once the aligner trays are produced, you’ll return to my office in Okotoks to receive your first set. Each set will contain around 2 weeks worth of aligners. I’ll provide instructions on how to properly wear and care for them. Generally you’ll wear each aligner for 2 weeks before switching to the next tray in your series.
Treatment Timeline
The average Invisalign treatment takes 12-18 months but can vary based on your specific orthodontic needs. Less severe cases may be completed in as little as 6 months. With each aligner change, you’ll notice incremental improvement in your smile. Over time, this amounts to dramatic straightening and alignment.
Appointment Schedule
You’ll have regular appointments with me approximately every 6-8 weeks during treatment. This allows me to monitor your progress, ensure the aligners are fitting and working properly, and make any necessary adjustments. Keep these appointments to stay on track.
Diet and Lifestyle
One benefit of Invisalign aligners near you is that you can remove them to eat and drink. You’ll need to take them out for meals and clean them properly. Avoid very hot or sticky foods that can damage the aligners. Also, refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco while wearing them.
Oral Hygiene
It’s important to maintain excellent oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment. Brush and floss after each meal before re-inserting your aligners. Regular cleanings at my dental office are also recommended every 6 months.
Final Steps
Once you’ve completed all the aligners in your series, I’ll evaluate your smile to determine if any refinements are needed. After full straightening is achieved, retainers are required to maintain your smile. I’ll go over proper retainer use and care.
Results
With commitment to the treatment plan, Invisalign can transform your smile – straightening teeth, closing gaps, and correcting bite issues. The results are noticeable after just a few aligner changes. Once completed, you’ll have the stunning, healthy smile you’ve always desired!
I hope this guide explains what to expect with Invisalign aligners from start to finish. Don’t hesitate to contact my Okotoks dental office with any other questions. Let’s get you started on your Invisalign journey!