Denver TMJ Disorder (TMD)

People frequently think of the jaw as a simple hinge joint that opens and closes. In truth, the jaw joints on either side of the head, called the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are complex systems of muscles, bones, tendons, and nerves, and they are connected directly to your teeth via the mandible (jaw bone). The TMJ is a delicate system that is tied to several other systems in the body via adjoining musculoskeletal systems like the neck/spine.

When the TMJ is not properly balanced due to an incorrect bite, the joint dysfunctions in a condition called TMJ Disorder (TMD), or commonly referred to as simply TMJ.

If you live in the Denver area and you think that you suffer from TMJ Disorder, call or email our Denver office today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Berry's TMJ therapy methods are tried and true and can help to treat your TMJ symptoms at the source.

TMJ Symptoms

The most common symptoms of TMJ Disorder are jaw pain and headaches, but TMJ can manifest itself in a whole array of symptoms:

• Migraine-like, chronic headaches
• Jaw pain
• Popping or clicking in the TMJ
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Snoring
• Sleep Apnea
• Neck pain
• Bad posture
• Grinding and clenching of the teeth (Bruxism)
• Broken teeth

If you suffer from TMJ disorder, your muscles are under constant strain. This is why so many TMJ patients suffer from chronic headaches. The muscles in the TMJ are directly tied to the other muscles and nerves in the skull and transfer this strain, resulting in painful tension headaches. These headaches can also be vascular in nature as the stressed-out muscles in the TMJ reduce blood flow to the area. The body then responds by sending more blood to the muscles, which increases the blood pressure in the local blood vessels, causing a vascular headache that can feel every bit as painful as a migraine.

Many of these symptoms come as a result of your body's natural effort to bring the TMJ back into balance so that the muscles can rest. Grinding your teeth at night is usually a result of your jaw trying to bring your bite into alignment. Unconsciously, you will grind your teeth down to nubs, trying to find that position of balance.

The First Step Toward TMJ Relief

If you're in the Denver area, and you think that you may be suffering from TMJ disorder, contact our Denver office today. As a neuromuscular dentist, Dr. Berry can help you find some answers and, with our TMJ treatment options, get relief from your symptoms once and for all. Why not schedule an appointment right now?