Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) consists of a small disc and a ball and socket. The disc acts as a cushion as the jawbone slides and rotates within the temporal bone of the skull in front of each ear.  The TMJ and the muscles of this area of the face affect chewing, bite (occlusion) and jaw movement.  TMD occurs when this joint is not functioning properly.  A common cause of TMJ disorder is a bite problem displacing the lower jaw out of its sockets.  Other causes of TMD are head or face injuries, teeth clenching, and wear and tear on teeth from teeth grinding or aging.  In all cases, TMD can be very painful. Denver dentists Dr. Paul Bell and Dr. Adam Almeida can diagnose the causes of TMJ disorders and recommend the appropriate TMJ treatment.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

• Pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders.
• A clicking, popping, or locking of jaw during movement.
• Teeth don’t fit together well
• Toothaches, headaches, neck aches, earaches, and hearing problems.
• Soreness or swelling in jaw or muscles of face

TMJ Treatment

There are many TMJ treatments that will help alleviate pain and prevent further damage of the TMJ.  One common treatment is a splint which helps move the jaw, ligaments, and muscles back into their correct place to function properly.  If conditions still exist, reconstructive dentistry, comprehensive orthodontics, or jaw surgery may be necessary.  Treatments vary in length depending on the severity of the joint and bone breakdown.

If you feel you are experiencing these TMD related symptoms, contact Denver's Almeida and Bell Aesthetic Dental Center in Lone Tree (east of Highlands Ranch) for TMJ treatment today by calling (720) 306-8057 or send the simple form on the right, and we will be glad to contact you.

 

 

 

 

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In the News

Dr. Donald Almeida and Dr. Adam Almeida have a regular eight-minute segment about cosmetic dentistry on “Colorado & Co.,” a program that airs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. every other Friday on Denver NBC affiliate KUSA Channel 9. In one of their segments, the Almeidas offered a “smile makeover” for a lucky contest winner to give as a Mother’s Day gift.

Watch Drs. Don and Adam Almeida on Colorado & Company -- 9 News!

See samples of some past shows:

April 21, 2006

April 28, 2006

September 22, 2006