Dr. Joseph Thompson is a well-educated dentist that offers treatment for patients suffering from TMJ disorders. This painful condition can create a lower quality of life and damage to your dental health. Dr. Thompson is welcoming patients from Loveland, CO who are seeking relief from their TMJ pain.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is actually a term that refers to the temporomandibular joint located on both sides of your skull. This joint is responsible for connecting the upper and lower jaw and the opening and closing of the mouth. TMJ is often used to describe pain or a problem with this joint. A TMJ disorder involves pain or limited mobility with the temporomandibular joint and surrounding ligaments and muscles.
Signs You Have a TMJ Problem
Anyone who suffers from problems with their temporomandibular joint knows how debilitating it can be. The pain can often be hard to manage. Many of the TMJ symptoms are similar to other medical problems making it hard to diagnose. Most people experience pain when moving their mouth open and shut or at rest. Other signs and symptoms of a TMJ disorder include:
- Frequent headaches
- Jaw pain
- Facial pain
- Worn down teeth
- Pain while chewing, speaking, or smiling
- Locked jaw
- Stiff jaw muscles
- Clicking or popping while moving jaw
- Pressure, ringing, or pain in the ear
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Dizziness
- Sharp pain on the sides of your face
- Facial swelling
TMJ Treatment in Loveland, CO
During your appointment, Dr. Thompson will perform a complete examination of your teeth, mouth, and jaw. If you are diagnosed with a TMJ disorder, he can help you find some relief. If the source of your issues is from an uneven bite or teeth grinding, he will recommend one of several TMJ treatments we offer at our Loveland, CO dentist office.
- Mouthgurads or Dental Splints
- Restorative Dentistry Treatments
- Orthodontics
- Ways to manage stress
What can a dentist do for my TMJ pain?
A dentist is actually a great medical professional to visit to help find relief from your TMJ symptoms. They understand the anatomy and makeup of your teeth, mouth, and jaw. Dr. Thompson can spot signs of teeth grinding or a misaligned bite both of which can contribute to TMJ problems. If your problems stem from teeth grinding, he can fit you for a custom mouth guard. If they stem from an uneven bite, then he can provide the correct treatment to correct your bite.
What is the most common cause of TMJ problems?
TMJ problems are typically caused by an injury to the head, arthritis, normal wear and tear, teeth grinding, or an uneven bite. These things can affect the jaw joints as well as the surrounding ligaments and muscles.
What will happen if TMJ is not treated?
While TMJ disorders are not life threatening, they can significantly affect your dental and overall health. TMJ pain can be debilitating and lead to difficulties chewing food, depression, and can interrupt your sleep. If your TMJ disorder is caused by teeth grinding, this can lead to severe tooth and gum damage.
Find Relief From Your TMJ Pain Today
Call the office of Dr. Thomspon today to book your appointment. After examining your entire mouth, he will determine the right TMJ treatment for you. We are currently welcoming patients from Loveland, CO who are seeking relief from their TMJ pain.