TMJ Dentist West Kelowna

Though the title “TMJ Dentist" is not applicable to any dentist, (there is no official certification for this area of treatment), West Kelowna Dentist Dr. Shauna Palmer has become quite experienced with treating patients who suffer from TMJ related pain.

Temporomandibular disorder, also known as TMD or TMJ dysfunction, refers to a variety of conditions that affect TM joints, jaw muscles and facial nerves. TMD may occur when the jaw twists during opening, closing or side-motion movements. People with TMD may experience these symptoms:

• Pain in or around the ear
• Headaches / migraines and neck aches
• Tenderness of the jaw or jaw muscles
• Jaw pain, facial pain or soreness
• Jaw pain when chewing, biting, or yawning
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
• Sensitive teeth when no other dental problems can be found
• Grinding or clenching of teeth 
• Shoulder and back pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Trigeminal Neuralgia

TMD affects more than twice as many women (particularly those of childbearing age) as men and is the most common non-dental-related chronic facial pain.

1. Place your pointer finger on your face, just in front of the middle of your ear and right under your cheekbone.
2. Now open and close your jaw.