TMJ disorder

TMJ Treatment

An imbalanced bite can trigger a range of problems as the jaw joints overcompensate in order to achieve a balanced resting position.

TMJ disorder treatment by a dentist can achieve the balance needed to stop inflammation, facial pain, headaches, and other symptoms.

What can TMJ treatment do for you?

TMJ disorder

TMJ Treatment Can Provide...

Relief

Treatment can eradicate symptoms such as pain in and around the joint, clicking when opening and closing your mouth, a locked jaw, and headaches.

Long-Term Benefits

By realigning the jaw, your dentist can prevent long-term harm, such as worn teeth, increased vulnerability to tooth decay, and serious joint damage. 

A Better Quality of Life

In the long run, TMJ treatment can improve your quality of life by relieving persistent and often debilitating symptoms that can compromise your mood and general wellbeing. 

Greater Affordability

In the long run, early TMJ treatment reduces the need for repeated and expensive procedures later in life.

Women Are at Higher Risk

When in Doubt, Have It Checked Out

Unlike a toothache, the symptoms of TMJ disorder are often easy to dismiss as stress. In fact, stress is sometimes a major contributing factor. However, because pain and other symptoms are not always persistent, it might be tempting to delay making an appointment even if you think you are experiencing TMJ disorder. However, the longer you wait, the more damage the condition can cause. As with any health issue, the sooner it is addressed, the better.

Illustration of TMJ disorder

Consultation and Diagnosis

Evaluating Your Condition

During the initial consultation, your doctor will evaluate your case by asking about your symptoms, reviewing your medical history, and examining your bite.

Taking X-Rays

Often, the examination will involve x-rays that will allow your dentist to analyze the way in which your jaws and teeth meet. ​A cone beam scanner may also be used to analyze the jaw joints.

Recommending Treatment

If your dentist determines that malocclusion or other conditions are placing stress on the jaw joints, they can recommend a number of treatment options. In some cases, it may be necessary to refer you to a specialist.

TMJ Disorder Can Be Relieved Through:

Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards can prevent you from damaging your teeth while grinding during sleep.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics can align the jaws and allow the teeth to meet properly.

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics such as dental crowns can restore a balanced bite.

Reshaping Teeth

Reshaping certain teeth can achieve better balance and relieve tension in the TMJs.

BOTOX® Medical

BOTOX Medical injections can relax strained jaw muscles.

Medications

Your doctor may recommend pain relievers or anti-inflammatories to ease discomfort, low doses of antidepressants to control bruxism, or muscle relaxants to reduce spasms.

Surgery

In serious cases and only as a last resort, surgery can repair the joints.

Illustration of jaw joint after treatmentIllustration of jaw joint before treatment

Easing Your Discomfort

Untreated TMJ disorder is often uncomfortable at best and debilitating at worst. In many cases, it is also accompanied by a slew of distracting or unpleasant side effects. By realigning your jaw, a doctor can reduce or even eliminate these symptoms. Not only will you ease discomfort in your daily life, but you also won’t have to be overly careful when yawning or eating. 

TMJ Disorder Is Extremely Common

Some estimates suggest that TMJ disorders affect over 10 million Americans. National Health Institute

Relieve Pain and Protect Your Oral Health

TMJ disorder can take a considerable toll on your quality of life by causing severe and ongoing discomfort. Those suffering from TMJ disorder often do not realize that a dentist can provide significant relief through treatment that helps your jaws meet properly. If you are experiencing jaw or facial pain, headaches, or unexplained tingling in your extremities, schedule an exam today.

Dr. Avery Lopez

Avery Lopez, DDS

Dr. Avery Lopez is proud to provide the highest level of care to maintain the health and aesthetics of your smile.  He is a member of:

  • International Congress of Oral Implantology
  • Metro Denver Dental Society
  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • Colorado Dental Association
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • Colorado Prosthodontic Society
  • Denver Implant Study Club

To schedule your consultation, contact us online or call us at (303) 300-0500.

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