Does your jaw hurt when you eat hard or crunchy foods? Do you often wake up with jaw pain? You may have TMD. The temporomandibular joints connect the jaw bone to the skull. Temporomandibular joint disorders occur when these joints are under stress or pressure. Patients with TMD can experience jaw and orofacial pain, headaches, and migraines.
At Gunbarrel Dental Center, we offer TMJ treatment for patients in Boulder, CO. Dr. Rachel Barone works with patients on their occlusion problems. Occlusion is the contact between teeth. How teeth come together impacts the smile and can leave patients more prone to TMJ disorders, especially if they have malocclusion or a bad bite. Dr. Barone helps patients restore the bite. Gunbarrel Dental Center also provides other restorative dentistry treatments in Boulder, Colorado.
TMD Symptoms
Signs of TMJ disorders often include:
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Headaches and migraines
- Tooth wear, chips, and cracks
- Jaw pain and toothaches
Please call our office if you notice any changes in the comfort of your teeth, face, or jaw. Dr. Barone will thoroughly examine your teeth and jaw. She will also take x-rays to look for signs of wear in the teeth and jaw.
How Stress Affects TMJ Disorders
Stress is a major contributor to TMJ problems. When you’re stressed, you may clench your jaw or grind your teeth without realizing it, especially at night. Over time, this puts extra pressure on your temporomandibular joints and cause pain, stiffness, and even headaches. Simple stress-relief techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or light exercise can help reduce tension in your jaw.
If stress-related grinding is an issue, Dr. Barone can fit you with a custom night guard to protect your teeth and ease discomfort.
Everyday Habits That Worsen TMD
Certain daily habits can make TMJ disorders worse. Chewing gum, biting your nails, or resting your chin on your hand adds unnecessary strain to your jaw joints. Even poor posture like slouching can misalign your jaw over time.
Try to be mindful of these habits and make small changes, like sitting up straight or switching to softer foods when your jaw feels sore. If you suspect these habits are affecting your jaw health, Dr. Barone can provide personalized advice during your exam.
TMJ Treatment in Boulder, CO
Occlusal splints or night guards help patients who clench and grind their teeth. Typically, patients experience bruxism unconsciously during sleep. Dr. Barone can create custom occlusal splints using dental impressions to help TMD patients. She may also discuss airway problems with patients as tooth wear can be associated with problems like snoring and sleep apnea.
TMD night guards are made of hard acrylic that covers the upper or lower row of teeth. Dr. Barone will ensure that the night guard is shaved down to have equal contact with each tooth. Wearing a night guard during sleep relaxes the jaw muscles and the TMJ. Night guards also prevent further tooth wear because they create a barrier between teeth. Patients with mild to moderate TMD benefit from wearing a night guard to minimize painful symptoms.
How TMJ Disorders Affect Your Overall Health
TMJ disorders can impact your entire body. Chronic jaw tension can cause earaches, neck and shoulder pain, and even trouble sleeping. In some cases, untreated TMD can contribute to worsening migraines or difficulty chewing. Addressing TMJ issues early can prevent these problems from getting worse. Dr. Barone’s comprehensive approach helps identify the root cause of your symptoms so you can enjoy better oral and overall health.
Non-Surgical TMJ Relief Options
Surgery isn’t always necessary to treat TMJ disorders. Many patients find relief through conservative treatments like:
- Custom night guards to reduce grinding and clenching
- Gentle jaw exercises to improve mobility
- Physical therapy or massage to relax tight muscles
- Dietary changes (e.g., avoiding hard or chewy foods)
Dr. Barone can work with you to create a tailored plan that eases your symptoms without invasive procedures. If needed, she may also collaborate with other specialists, like physical therapists, to ensure the best results.
Treat TMD Today
Are you tired of waking up with jaw pain and frequent headaches? Request a dental appointment with Dr. Barone online. You can also contact Gunbarrel Dental Center today at 720-881-0614.