TMD is short for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which affects the jaw joint and the muscles that control the joint’s movement. Individuals with TMD may be experiencing jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and even ear pain. If you have these symptoms, it is important to get TMD treatment in Kelowna to control the disorder before it gets worse.
How often should you be seeing your dentist for your TMD care? It depends! It will vary based on your symptoms, treatment plan, and how your body is responding to therapy. Let’s break things down easily.
What Are the Signs That You Might Have TMD?
TMD may show up in different ways, and at times, you may not realize the issue is coming from your jaw. Your dentist will advise you when to come in for treatment of TMD in Kelowna. Signs to pay attention to are
- Clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth
- Jaw locking, or a limited range of movement
- Pain in your jaw, face, neck or around the ears
- Frequent headaches, particularly near the temples
- Difficulty chewing or talking
If you notice any of the signs above, you should consult with your dentist. They can also discuss the TMD symptoms and treatment frequency—these will be unique to your needs.
How Often Should You See the Dentist for TMD?
The frequency of treatment will depend on how severe your condition is, but generally speaking, this is a helpful guideline:
| Severity Level | Suggested Visits |
| Mild (occasional discomfort) | Every 3–6 months |
| Moderate (regular pain or popping) | Monthly checkups for a few months |
| Severe (constant pain or jaw locking) | Weekly or bi-weekly visits at first |
Your dentist is going to review your progress on each visit and adjust your plan of care accordingly. Remember, TMD frequently resolves over time but only with appropriate management.
What to Expect During a TMD Appointment:
Each visit typically involves:
- Discussing your symptoms and daily habits
- Checking your jaw movement
- Taking X-rays or scans, if necessary
- Fitting or adjusting a nightguard
- Providing recommendations regarding therapy, such as jaw exercises, warm compresses, or bite adjustments
If you are looking for a dentist near you, consider checking that they are comfortable with TMD management and can support you in the long term.
What Habits Might Affect How Often You Need Treatment?
Some daily habits can make TMD worse and increase the number of visits you’ll need. These include:
- Clenching or grinding your teeth (especially during sleep)
- Poor posture, especially if you work at a desk
- Chewing gum often or biting nails
- Stress, which can lead to more jaw tension
Changing these habits can help reduce pain and cut down on future dental appointments. Pairing these changes with TMD therapy near you, such as jaw exercises, relaxation techniques, or professional guidance, can make a big difference in your recovery.
Who Should You See for TMD in Kelowna?
If you’re looking for a Jaw pain dentist in Kelowna, choose someone who will take the time to understand your concerns and explain your treatment clearly. Consistency is key; working with the same dental provider ensures your care is tailored and adjusted over time.
You might also hear about therapy options for TMD, which include massage, physiotherapy, and even stress relief techniques. Your dentist might recommend one or more of these alongside your regular appointments.
Find Relief at Mission Park Dental
Jaw pain can interrupt your sleep, meals, and daily activities, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. At Mission Park Dental, we’re here to support you with thoughtful, personalized care for TMD. Whether you need help understanding your symptoms or want a plan that works, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a more comfortable, pain-free smile.