TMJ Disorders in Wheat Ridge, CO

The evaluation and treatment of dental obstruction are vital aspects of dentistry, as they directly affect your ability to speak and eat comfortably. Occlusal disorders, which occur when the oral structures fail to function in harmony, can lead to significant discomfort and complications. These disorders are commonly referred to as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which impact the joints and muscles in the jaw. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause a variety of issues, including joint and muscle pain, gum recession, chronic headaches, and cracked or worn teeth.

At Trailhead Dental in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, we specialize in treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Our goal is to restore harmony to your bite and alleviate the pain associated with TMJ dysfunction, improving your quality of life.

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What Is TMJ Disorder?

A TMJ disorder refers to issues affecting the temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. Everyone has two TMJs, located on either side of the face, that allow for smooth movement necessary for speaking, chewing, and even breathing. When these joints do not function properly, it can lead to discomfort and other symptoms.

The first and most common symptom of TMJ disorder is pain in the jaw. However, other symptoms can also manifest, including:

Ear and facial pain: Pain may be felt in and around the ears, extending into the face.
Difficulty chewing and biting: Jaw pain can make eating or biting down difficult and painful.
Jaw locking: In severe cases, the jaw may lock in place, preventing full movement.
Clicking or popping noises: A clicking sound when you open or close your mouth may indicate a misalignment of the joint.
Restricted jaw movement: A limited range of motion when opening the mouth wide can be a telltale sign. Contact us to learn more.

What Are the Causes of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders can arise due to a variety of factors, including genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences. The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure that combines a hinge and sliding mechanism to facilitate jaw movement. It is supported by cartilage and a disc that cushions the bones, ensuring smooth motion.

However, when the disc becomes misaligned or wears down, it can impair the joint's function. While the exact causes of TMJ dysfunction may not always be clear, common factors include:

Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis can contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint.
Infections: Infections in the joint or surrounding tissues can lead to TMJ problems.
Teeth grinding: Bruxism (grinding teeth), often during sleep, places excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to wear and dysfunction.
Physical trauma: An injury to the jaw or face can cause TMJ misalignment.

When Should You Seek Treatment for TMJ?

For mild to moderate symptoms, you may find relief through self-care measures at home. These include:

Minimizing jaw movement
Eating softer foods to avoid straining the jaw
Avoiding gum chewing
Practicing relaxation techniques to prevent jaw clenching

While these adjustments can ease discomfort, persistent pain in the jaw or face, or difficulty in opening and closing the mouth, indicate the need for professional treatment. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek expert care to prevent further damage to your oral health.

How Can TMJ Be Treated?

At Trailhead Dental, we offer a variety of treatments tailored to address TMJ disorders, depending on the severity of your condition. For patients with mild symptoms, we often recommend:

Physical therapy and exercises: These routines are designed to realign the joint, strengthen the jaw muscles, and reduce pain. Specific TMJ exercises can stretch and support the joint and surrounding muscles.
Protective mouthguards: If teeth grinding or jaw clenching is contributing to your symptoms, we may provide a custom-made mouthguard to protect your teeth and alleviate pressure on the TMJ.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications, such as muscle relaxants, may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroid injections: In cases of severe inflammation, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce swelling and pain.
Surgical options: In rare cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be considered to repair or replace the damaged joint.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, we encourage you to visit our office at Trailhead Dental in Wheat Ridge. We can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best addresses your needs.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit us at 4350 Wadsworth Blvd, Suite 360, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, or call us at (720) 242-6803.