TMJ / TMD

Aurora and Denver, Colorado

A balanced bite is a healthy bite, and even a minor disruption of the jaw joints can have a large impact on your dental health. To ensure comprehensive care for your teeth and gums, choose a general dentist who is trained to diagnose and treat jaw joint problems. Aspenwood Dental Associates and Colorado Dental Implant Center is proud to offer state-of-the-art TMD treatment for Colorado patients experiencing symptoms of a bad bite.

Jaw Joint Problems

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the ball and socket joint on either side of the head that makes jaw movement possible. The proper function of these joints is crucial for eating and speaking. Just like any other joint in the body, the TMJ is susceptible to injury and disease. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) refers to a wide range of dysfunction that can occur with the jaw joints.

Effects of a Bite Imbalance

When the upper and lower teeth do not come together in a comfortable and symmetrical rest position, a person is said to have an imbalanced bite, one of the main causes of jaw joint (neuromuscular) problems. Colorado patients seek out our neuromuscular treatment for a variety of reasons. Some of the more common symptoms of a bite imbalance include:

• Difficulty opening or closing the jaw
• Pain in the mouth, jaw, neck, face, or shoulders
• Headaches
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Tooth loss
• Muscle spasms in the face
• Lockjaw
• Worn enamel or damaged dental work
• Tooth grinding
• Jaw clenching

Treatment Options for TMD

The Aurora TMJ dentists at Aspenwood Dental Associates can diagnose and treat mild jaw joint problems, and we refer more involved cases to a local specialist. In many instances, jaw joint problems can be solved with simple resting and jaw exercises and lifestyle adjustments. Symptom management may include avoidance of tough foods, heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory or pain medications. Cosmetic dentistry procedures can help restore balance in the bite by ensuring teeth fit together perfectly. For some patients, a night guard or other orthotic device works great for preventing grinding and gently encouraging the lower jaw into a better position.

Our neuromuscular team can help you get to the root of the problem with expert TMD diagnosis and treatment. To learn more about jaw joint problems and solutions, please contact Aspenwood Dental Associates and Colorado Dental Implant Center today. We offer free consultations with our experienced cosmetic dentists, as well as affordable financing plans.