Relief from migraines, sleep apnea, neck and/or jaw pain, and grinding teeth.

Relief from migraines, sleep apnea, neck and/or jaw pain, and grinding teeth.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ syndrome (also called TMJD or TMD), is an umbrella term for the acute or chronic inflammation you might have in the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. Some symptoms of TMD include pain or discomfort in the head and neck area, migraines, popping or clicking in the jaw joint, ringing in the ears or tinnitus and other neck pain. These issues can be easily treated by using a mandibular repositioning device or a dental appliance for sleep apnea.

Boulder TMJ Treatment

Migraines, neck and jaw pain

If chips, cracks, uneven teeth, and stains are robbing you of a beautiful smile, dental veneers may be the fix! These imperfections don’t mean your teeth aren’t still healthy. Porcelain veneers can be bonded to damaged but still healthy teeth, giving you back a radiant, healthy smile. Dr. Kawulok and his professional staff not only cover the damaged area but also expertly match your new veneers to your current teeths’ color. This gives you a more natural smile!
asian-woman-massaging-aching-neck-sitting-in-bed
clear retainer going in womans mouth for tooth whitening

Grinding and breaking teeth

What Is Bruxism?

Woman in bed holding jaw because of bruxism pain
Woman in bed holding jaw because of bruxism pain
Image of a man in pain due to TMD/TMJ issues

TMJD/TMD Treatment

Image of a man in pain due to TMD/TMJ issues

TMJ treatment is often divided

into two phases

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Phase One

consists of relieving some or much of the symptoms you are experiencing and finding a stable jaw or bite position. This is usually accomplished with orthotics or bite plates for daytime and nighttime. Typically, this takes 3 to 6 months.

icon with black background of the number 2

Phase Two

can include many solutions to provide a stable bite, comfortable jaw position, and comfort for the future. This might include restorative care like minimally invasive crowns and veneers, Orthodontic care to reposition the teeth in an improved bite is another option. This might include the use of the Anterior Repositioning Appliance (ARA) for optimal tooth positioning, followed by enhanced Controlled Arch Braces. Invisalign clear aligner orthodontics are also sometimes used. Lastly, Phase Two can also just simply be creating final daytime and nighttime orthotics. Primarily, once symptoms are relieved, we want you to remain comfortable and these solutions offer stability.

TMJ treatment is often divided

INTO TWO PHASES

Phase One

consists of relieving some or much of the symptoms you are experiencing and finding a stable jaw or bite position. This is usually accomplished with orthotics or bite plates for daytime and nighttime. Typically, this takes 3 to 6 months.

Phase Two

can include many solutions to provide a stable bite, comfortable jaw position, and comfort for the future. This might include restorative care like minimally invasive crowns and veneers, Orthodontic care to reposition the teeth in an improved bite is another option. This might include the use of the Anterior Repositioning Appliance (ARA) for optimal tooth positioning, followed by enhanced Controlled Arch Braces. Invisalign clear aligner orthodontics are also sometimes used. Lastly, Phase Two can also just simply be creating final daytime and nighttime orthotics. Primarily, once symptoms are relieved, we want you to remain comfortable and these solutions offer stability.

MLS Laser

“MLS Warm Laser Technology” Our office uses MLS Laser Therapy, a revolutionary system that has been shown to reduce inflammation, reduce pain, and promote healing DRUG-FREE! This laser is the pride and joy of our office. Almost everything a Dentist treats is either painful, or inflammatory, and some procedures require rapid healing. This laser causes no pain, and works immediately on your pain and inflammation to make you feel like you didn’t even go to the dentist, as soon as possible!

FAQs

What is the TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the hinge that connects the temporal bones of your skull to your jaw and can cause pain in the muscles that control your jaw’s movement or the jaw joint itself.

What Causes TMD?

TemporoMandibular Disorders. While it’s sometimes difficult to determine the cause of TMJ disorders , there are a few contributing factors:

  • Genetics
  • Arthritis
  • Jaw Injury
  • Malocclusion
  • Worn teeth
  • Breathing disorders including allergies, swollen tonsils, and sleep apnea

TMD can occur if the jaw disk has eroded or moved out of alignment, or the cartilage in the joint is damaged from arthritis, blows, or other impacts.

What Are The Symptoms of TMD?

Symptoms of TMJ disorders can include:

  • Tenderness or pain in your jaw
  • Pain in one or both of your jaw joints
  • Aching pain in/around your ear
  • Difficulty or pain while chewing
  • Facial pain
  • Consistent Migraines
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Locked jaw joint and difficulty opening or closing your mouth

What Are The Benefits of TMD Treatment?

Some benefits of TMD treatment are relief of pain in the jaw and face, migraines, and ringing in your ears.

Why Choose Whole Family Dentistry for Your TMD or Sleep Apnea Needs?

Dr. Kawulok is a Diplomat of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Only a limited number of Colorado dentists hold this distinction. It indicates Dr. Kawulok’s commitment to training and knowledge in treating TMJ and Sleep Apnea. Both Dr. Kawulok and Dr. Kent are trained in the Physiologic approach to TMD treatment. We at Whole Family Dentistry strive to provide optimal dental treatment for sleep apnea and TMJ. Patients often have both problems simultaneously. We can review with you all TMJ/OSA treatment options to provide you comprehensive care. We understand the importance of convenient and comfortable dental care for everyone - whether you’re meticulously taking care of your teeth or it’s been a while since your last dental visit. Dr. Kawulok and Dr. Kent have trained at the world-renowned LVI, incorporate the best technologies, and have a passion for creating beautiful smiles and healthier mouths. Contact us today and see how we can help you have a healthier, more radiant smile.