TMJ
Your TMJ Dentist in Denver
The evaluation and treatment of dental occlusion is an integral aspect of dentistry because it affects the way you chew and speak. The dentists at Cody Dental Group in Denver, CO provide expert treatment of patients’ temporomandibular joints (TMJ), helping to ensure a correct bite. Occlusal disorders occur when the mouth’s teeth and jaw muscles do not work together in harmony. Also known as TMJ disorders, they may result in muscle pain, joint pain, frequent headaches, gum recession, and sore, cracked, or worn teeth. If your bite is out of alignment, you may also grind your teeth more frequently, a habit dubbed bruxism. Our team has spent more than 70 years treating issues related to the TMJ, so we are well-versed in solutions to ease your discomfort. Call us today to learn more.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorders (TMJ) affect the temporomandibular joint, a hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. You have a TMJ on each side of your face to facilitate movement that allows you to chew, talk, and yawn. The joint is complex, which makes diagnosis and treatment challenging, but the team at Cody Dental Group has extensive experience in doing so. If you experience pain in your TMJ, call us for a consultation so that we may explain other symptoms of which you should be aware.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of TMJ?
The first symptom that many people suffering from TMJ notice is pain in their jaw or TMJ. They may attribute this discomfort to an injury or simply sleeping in an awkward position, but such pain should not be dismissed easily. Let us know if you experience any other symptoms, such as:
- Earaches
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial pain
- Locking of the joint
- Clicking sounds when you chew or open your mouth
- Limited movement
What Causes TMJ?
There is a wide range of causes for TMJ disorders. They encompass genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. The TMJ is a complex joint that combines a hinge action with sliding motions, so there are many moving pieces and intricacies. Bones that interact with the TMJ are covered by cartilage and separated by a disk to keep the movement smooth. However, if the disk erodes or moves out of alignment, the cartilage is damaged, or the joint itself is harmed, you may develop a TMJ. Though the catalyst for TMJ development is not always clear, it can happen as a result of:
- Physical injury
- Arthritis
- Autoimmune diseases
- Infections
- Dental surgery
- Grinding one’s teeth during sleep
When Should You Seek Treatment for TMJ?
There are many at-home remedies that you can try to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMJ. It is important to reduce the movement of your jaw when possible, so you can start by eating soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, and resisting the urge to clench your jaw. These lifestyle changes can often relieve mild-to-moderate symptoms. However, if you have persistent pain in your jaw or struggle to open or close it completely, seek assistance from the professionals at Cody Dental Group. We will schedule an appointment to diagnose your condition and begin treatment at your earliest convenience.
TMJ Treatment in Denver
Cody Dental Group offers a wide range of treatment options for TMJ disorders of varying severities. For our patients experiencing mild symptoms, we can suggest an assortment of TMJ exercises and physical therapy routines to help realign the joint and alleviate pain. TMJ exercises strengthen jaw muscles, stretch the TMJ, and help support surrounding structures. Other patients may find more relief from TMJ massages. We can perform TMJ massages at our clinic in Denver, but we will also explain how you can massage yourself at home. To complement these measures, we can provide you with a TMJ mouthguard. This oral splint may be inserted over your teeth for support. Other potential TMJ treatments include:
- Medications including pain relievers and muscle relaxants
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgery
Contact Cody Dental Group for TMJ Treatment Today
You are unlikely to give a second thought to your TMJ regularly, but it will be top of mind if you feel pain every time you chew, speak, or yawn. If you notice aches or locking joints whenever you move your jaw, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. For diagnosis and treatment, visit Cody Dental Group in Denver, CO. Since 1946, we have delivered high-quality dentistry services to patients throughout the area, and our expertise extends to TMJ. We can help you feel your best again, so contact us today for a bite disorder evaluation.