TMJ Treatment – Westminster, CO
Effective Solutions for a Better Quality of Life
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) affects millions of people throughout the United States. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, a recent study suggested that between 11 and 12 million adults have TMJ pain, and it is more common in women than men. If morning headaches, chronic jaw pain, and a stiff neck are keeping you from living your best life, it’s time to contact our office and let Dr. Bancroft at J.B. Dental recommend TMJ treatment in Westminster. Using safe and effective solutions, she can help relieve the pain and put you on a better track to improved oral function.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ dysfunction occurs when the temporomandibular joints, muscles, and connective tissues surrounding the jaw become inflamed or damaged. Not only does this affect these immediate joints that connect to the base of the skull, but it also causes difficulty chewing, speaking, yawning, laughing, and even sneezing.
Whether caused by inflammation, a misaligned bite, oral trauma, or bruxism, the joints can become overworked and create unnecessary tension that leads to increased discomfort that can be debilitating.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The only way to know for sure if you have TMJ Disorder is to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Westminster. However, some signs can point you to contact our office sooner rather than later for treatment. These include:
- Difficulty chewing or eating
- Intense pain in the jaw and behind the eyes
- Frequent earaches or ringing in the ear
- Lockjaw
- Popping of the jaw or clicking when opening and closing your mouth
- Limited oral function
- Change in your bite
- Pain in your neck and back
Should you discover that you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. The sooner you receive treatment, the better.
Types of TMJ Treatment
When meeting with Dr. Bancroft to determine whether you have TMJ dysfunction, you can expect to undergo digital imaging for diagnostic examination. This may include digital X-rays that not only emit far less radiation but also produce high-resolution images for more accurate treatment planning. Once Dr. Bancroft compiles her findings, she will go over the various treatment options to help you decide which one is right for you based on your needs.
Because TMJ dysfunction can be caused by several things (i.e., bruxism, oral trauma, stress, joint inflammation), it’s important that we identify the underlying cause before deciding on a specific treatment.
Occlusal Splint
Should you be recommended for an occlusal splint, you can expect this unique device to not only protect teeth from the effects of grinding (i.e., worn tooth enamel), but it will also reduce the symptoms associated with TMJ, helping to improve your condition. In return, you’ll experience greater relief from the pain.
BOTOX® Injections
With BOTOX injections, we can target the muscles that surround the jaw joints, allowing the injectable solution to temporarily freeze them and ultimately, relax. Although results will only last a few months, it can be an effective option for individuals who desire a more comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment, as your dentist may recommend both BOTOX and an occlusal splint.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Dr. Bancroft and her team at J.B. Dental believe in offering services that are designed to help you experience relief from the pain caused by inflamed or damaged temporomandibular joints. We know you probably have many questions about how to treat it and what life will be like in the long run, which is why you are always welcome to contact our office. You also have the option of reviewing the following frequently asked questions about TMJ Treatment, which Dr. Bancroft has taken the time to answer.
Can TMJ be cured permanently?
When meeting with Dr. Bancroft to inquire about treatment, she will recommend the best course of action to help reverse the symptoms you’re experiencing with TMJ disorder. This may include a custom-made oral appliance that is worn while asleep so that your jaw moves into proper alignment and decreases the amount of pressure placed on your jaw joints. With regular wear and checkups with Dr. Bancroft, there is a possibility that we can eliminate the pain in the long term.
Is BOTOX for TMJ safe?
Yes, BOTOX can be a safe solution when treating TMJ disorder. While it must be administered by a trained professional like Dr. Bancroft, the injection can help to temporarily freeze the muscles around your jaw joints. Since there is no additional pressure causing pain, it allows you to relax. The use of BOTOX is often not the only solution she will suggest when undergoing TMJ treatment. You may also be fitted for a custom oral appliance.
When inquiring about BOTOX injections for treatment, you should know that there are potential side effects, although minor, such as:
- Redness and soreness
- Slight bruising
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Flu-like symptoms
How long does TMJ Treatment take?
No two cases are the same when it comes to TMJ Treatment. This is why you must meet with your dentist to discuss the severity of your jaw pain. This will help to determine the type of treatment you need and how long you can expect it to take. While there are methods you can use at home that help to relieve discomfort in little time, they’re unlikely to address the main issue, thus causing additional discomfort in the future.
By seeking professional treatment, though, you’ll notice a dramatic change in how your jaw functions and feels, but it can take several weeks or months when wearing an oral appliance.
Is TMJ treatment expensive?
Much like the timeline for treatment differs with each person, so does the cost. There are many factors Dr. Bancroft will need to consider before identifying how much you can expect to pay for your treatment. These might include:
- What is causing your jaw pain?
- The type of treatment you will receive (i.e., oral appliance therapy, BOTOX)
- How long she expects your treatment to last
- Whether you plan to use your insurance or pay out-of-pocket
There is no set price tag for this type of treatment, as it will vary with each person; however, the important fact is that seeking and pursuing treatment is far better than avoiding it and allowing your symptoms to worsen over time.
Your medical or dental insurance may agree to pay for a portion of the cost; however, it depends on the type of policy you have, as there are often many stipulations. Fortunately, Dr. Bancroft offers the J.B. Dental Membership Program and partners with CareCredit Financing to help.