Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can be a source of significant discomfort and pain, affecting many aspects of daily life. In Calgary, those suffering from TMJ pain often seek the expertise of a TMJ dentist to alleviate their symptoms. However, not all treatments are created equal. While many approaches focus solely on the teeth, a more holistic and effective method is the biomechanical approach to TMJ treatment, as applied by the renowned TMJ dentist Dr. Curtis Westersund at Dentalife in Calgary, Canada.
The Limitations of Isolated TMJ Treatment
Traditional TMJ treatments often focus exclusively on the teeth and jaw, treating the symptoms in isolation rather than considering the broader context of the body. This narrow approach may involve procedures like adjusting the bite, fitting mouthguards, or prescribing pain relief medications. While these methods can provide temporary relief, they often fail to address the underlying causes of TMJ pain.
The problem with isolated TMJ treatment is that it overlooks the complex interactions between the teeth, jaw, muscles, and other structures of the body. TMJ disorders are rarely just about the jaw; they are often symptomatic of broader biomechanical imbalances. By treating TMJ pain in isolation, the root cause may persist, leading to recurring pain and discomfort.
The Biomechanical Approach: A Holistic Perspective
A biomechanical approach to TMJ treatment recognizes that the body is an interconnected system where everything is linked. This method involves assessing and treating the entire body to ensure that all systems are working harmoniously. Dr. Curtis Westersund, a leading TMJ dentist in Calgary, champions this approach at Dentalife, providing patients with a more comprehensive and effective path to relief from TMJ pain.
Dr. Westersund’s biomechanical approach begins with a thorough examination of the patient’s entire musculoskeletal system. This includes not only the teeth and jaw but also the neck, spine, posture, and even the feet. By understanding how these different parts of the body interact and influence each other, Dr. Westersund can identify the true source of TMJ pain.
In many cases, TMJ disorders are linked to poor posture, muscle imbalances, or misalignment in the spine. For example, if a person has poor posture, the muscles in the neck and shoulders can become strained, which in turn affects the position and function of the jaw. Similarly, issues with the feet or lower back can lead to compensatory movements that misalign the jaw, resulting in TMJ pain.
By addressing these underlying biomechanical issues, Dr. Westersund can provide more lasting relief from TMJ pain. This approach often involves a combination of treatments, such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, custom orthotics, and dental adjustments, all tailored to the individual needs of the patient. The goal is to restore balance to the entire body, ensuring that the jaw functions correctly and without pain.
The Benefits of a Biomechanical Approach
The biomechanical approach to TMJ treatment in Calgary offers several key advantages over traditional methods. Firstly, it addresses the root cause of TMJ pain, rather than just the symptoms. This leads to more lasting relief and reduces the likelihood of the pain returning.
Secondly, by considering the entire body, this approach can prevent other related issues from developing. For example, by correcting posture or muscle imbalances, patients may also experience relief from neck pain, headaches, and even back pain.
Lastly, the biomechanical approach empowers patients with a better understanding of their bodies and how different systems interact. This knowledge can help them take proactive steps to maintain their health and prevent future problems.
Don’t Wait: Seek TMJ Pain Care in Calgary
Living with TMJ pain can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of life. Unfortunately, the longer TMJ issues go untreated, the more severe they can become. Waiting to address the problem can lead to chronic pain, more complex treatment needs, and a longer recovery time.
If you’re experiencing TMJ pain, it’s crucial to seek help from a skilled TMJ practitioner in Calgary, like Dr. Curtis Westersund at Dentalife. By taking a biomechanical approach, you can find relief that addresses the root cause of your pain and restores balance to your body. Don’t wait with treatment—addressing TMJ pain early on will help prevent more significant issues down the line.
