When jaw pain, headaches, or facial tension won’t go away, many people don’t know where to turn. They may see a physician, a physiotherapist, or even try pain medication—yet the discomfort lingers. That’s because the problem often isn’t just “in your head” or “in your jaw.” It’s a biomechanical issue that requires specialized care.
At Dentalife in Calgary, Dr. Curtis Westersund has dedicated his practice to helping patients find relief as a trusted TMJ dentist in Calgary. His approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms. By focusing on biomechanics—the way your teeth, jaw, muscles, and joints all work together—he helps patients restore harmony to their bite and their lives.
What Is TMJ and Why Does It Cause So Much Trouble?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joints, which connect your lower jaw to your skull. These joints are among the most complex in the body, working every time you talk, chew, or even yawn. When they stop functioning properly, the condition is known as TMJ disorder (TMD).
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck, shoulder, or upper back tension
- Tooth wear or sensitivity
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, many patients go years without realizing their issues are related to TMJ. That’s where an experienced TMJ dentist in Calgary like Dr. Westersund makes all the difference.
Why a Biomechanical Approach Matters
Most TMJ problems are not simply about “bad joints.” They’re about misalignment and imbalance in the way your bite, teeth, and muscles work together. If the bite is unstable, the muscles have to overcompensate. That constant strain leads to pain, dysfunction, and eventually, damage.
Dr. Westersund’s biomechanical approach focuses on restoring balance to the system:
- Teeth – ensuring they meet properly and support the bite.
- Muscles – relieving overworked muscles caused by imbalance.
- Joints – allowing the TMJ to function smoothly without strain.
Instead of masking symptoms, this method identifies and corrects the underlying mechanical issues.
TMJ Treatment at Dentalife in Calgary
When you visit Dentalife, the first step is a thorough consultation. Dr. Westersund uses advanced diagnostic tools to analyze the bite, muscle activity, and jaw function. This helps pinpoint the source of your TMJ issues.
Treatment may include:
- Neuromuscular orthotics to gently reposition the jaw into a healthier alignment.
- Bite adjustments to ensure teeth support proper function.
- Splint therapy to reduce strain and protect teeth from grinding.
- Supportive therapies like posture correction or referrals to complementary care providers if needed.
Every treatment plan is customized because no two patients experience TMJ disorder in exactly the same way. The focus is always on long-term relief—not just short-term fixes.
The Difference with Dr. Curtis Westersund
As a TMJ dentist in Calgary, Dr. Westersund has decades of experience in helping patients reclaim their lives from chronic jaw pain and related symptoms. His dedication to a biomechanical approach sets him apart:
- Whole-System Focus – He looks at the entire chewing system, not just the teeth or joints in isolation.
- Advanced Training – Dr. Westersund continually studies the latest science in TMJ and neuromuscular dentistry.
- Compassionate Care – He understands how exhausting chronic pain can be and provides care that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
For many patients, this approach is life-changing. By addressing the root cause of dysfunction, it’s possible to reduce or even eliminate years of pain and discomfort.
Find Your TMJ Dentist in Calgary
Living with TMJ pain doesn’t have to be your “new normal.” If you’ve tried other solutions without lasting success, it’s time to explore a biomechanical approach that treats the cause—not just the symptoms.
At Dentalife in Calgary, Dr. Curtis Westersund is here to help. As an experienced TMJ dentist in Calgary, he can evaluate your bite, restore balance, and give you a pathway to relief.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward living pain-free.
