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Customized & Effective TMJ Therapy
TMD, also known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, is a condition that impacts your ability to easily maneuver and use your jaw. When these joints aren’t working as they should be, it could make it difficult to complete basic daily actions, such as yawning and chewing food. This condition can also cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms that impact your daily life, such as headaches, chronic jaw pain, and earaches. To schedule an appointment to learn more, contact our office today.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Many cases of TMD go undiagnosed because patients aren’t sure of what symptoms are red flags. If you experience lockjaw, earaches, chronic jaw pain, or discomfort while chewing, then you should be examined for TMJ disorder. When you visit our office, we’ll first test your range of jaw motion. Then we’ll look for signs of teeth grinding, which is a tell-tale symptom of TMD. Once we determine the underlying cause of your condition, we will develop a treatment plan to ease your discomfort.
Occlusal Splints
To help secure your jaw in a more natural position while you sleep and prevent grinding from impacting your oral health, we offer customized occlusal splints. These are orthotic devices that are made from acrylic resin, specially designed to support your TMJ and reduce pressure and tension on your facial muscles. With regular use over time, these can reduce uncomfortable TMD symptoms, such as chronic jaw pain and headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMJ/TMD, and what causes it?
TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) is a condition that affects the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, making it difficult to comfortably move your jaw. Common causes include teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), jaw injury or trauma, arthritis, stress, bite misalignment, and poor posture. Left untreated, TMD can significantly impact your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy daily life.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
Common symptoms include chronic jaw pain or soreness, headaches (especially in the morning), earaches or ringing in the ears, clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing your mouth, lockjaw or limited jaw movement, facial pain, neck and shoulder pain, difficulty chewing, and worn or sensitive teeth from grinding. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, schedule an evaluation at our Evergreen, CO office to determine if TMD is the cause.
How is TMD diagnosed?
During your TMD evaluation at Evergreen Dental Group, we'll review your symptoms and medical history, test your jaw's range of motion, listen for clicking or popping sounds, check for signs of teeth grinding like worn enamel, and examine your bite alignment. In some cases, digital imaging may be used to evaluate the jaw joints more closely. Once we identify the underlying cause, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to relieve your discomfort.
How is an occlusal splint different from a store-bought nightguard?
Store-bought nightguards offer one-size-fits-all protection from teeth grinding but don't address the underlying jaw misalignment that causes TMD. Custom occlusal splints are designed specifically for your bite using precise digital impressions and our in-office 3D printer, ensuring a comfortable, secure fit and therapeutic benefits that drugstore versions simply can't provide. The investment in a custom splint pays off in long-term comfort, durability, and effectiveness.
Can TMD be cured?
While there's no single cure for TMD, the symptoms can often be successfully managed and significantly reduced or eliminated with the right treatment plan. Many patients in Evergreen, Golden, and Conifer experience long-term relief through a combination of custom occlusal splints, stress management, lifestyle changes, and addressing underlying issues like bite misalignment or teeth grinding.
Can stress really make TMD worse?
Absolutely. Stress is one of the most common contributors to TMD because it leads to jaw clenching and teeth grinding, both during waking hours and while sleeping. Many patients notice their TMD symptoms flare up during stressful periods of life. Managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, therapy, and good sleep habits can play a significant role in reducing TMD pain and protecting your jaw long-term.
How long does it take to see results from TMD treatment?
Many patients experience some relief within the first few weeks of wearing their custom occlusal splint, with continued improvement over the following months. The timeline depends on the severity of your condition, how consistently you wear your appliance, and whether contributing factors like stress and grinding are addressed. Our team will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
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