At Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry, we understand the relationship between your teeth, jaw joint, and craniofacial muscles. Whether you are chewing or talking, these systems must be in balance to be comfortable, healthy, and stable.
Without the stable environment, patients may suffer from discomfort with their jaw joint, teeth, head and even neck and shoulders. We want to make sure you have healthy temporomandibular joints (TMJ’s) before, during and after your dental treatment.
TMJ Disorder
The term “TMJ” refers to the anatomy of the jaw joint, or temporomandibular joint. However, “TMJ” is often used to refer to the associated pain that comes with a dysfunctional jaw joint. TMJ dysfunction screening is important because problems in the jaw joint and facial muscles can affect how we plan for your dental work. See video >>>
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder/Dysfunction may include one or more of the following:
- Popping, clicking and crackling sound of the joint during speaking or eating
- Painful chewing
- Difficulty opening wide or yawning
- Ear pain or “ringing” in the ears
- Eye Pain
- Stiff neck, shoulders and jaw joint
- Sore jaw muscles
- Worn down teeth
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Cracked or broken restorations
- Headache and/or Migraines
- Sleep Breathing Disorders
How does Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry Screen for TMJ Disorders?
Our office has received exceptional training in signs and symptoms of TMJ Disorder and dysfunction, including what to look for during examinations and visits. Upon arriving to our office, we gather as much information as possible to see if you have a history of any of the ailments listed above.
If you currently suffer from any of the symptoms listed, please call our office right away, at 480-473-8920, to schedule a special TMJ consultation appointment for a comprehensive evaluation.
What causes TMJ Disorder?
There are many factors that can cause temporomandibular joint disorder/dysfunction (TMD). Any type of trauma or injury to your jaw, or the joints, may play a role in some TMJ disorders. For some people, TMD may be worsened by malocclusion (bad bite) or sleep apnea.
While there are many philosophies and treatment options available for those who suffer from TMJ disorders, Dr. Sara Vizcarra provides an exceptional dental treatment option to a medical disorder. With extensive training and specific diagnostic testing, Dr. Sara ensures that her patients receive proper treatment for their jaw joint issues.