Grand Junction TMJ Dentist
Discover a life free of TMJ discomfort with our expert care
Don’t let TMJ control your life!
If you’re struggling with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, you know how disruptive it can be to your life. Pain, discomfort, and limited jaw mobility can make it difficult to eat, talk, and even sleep. But the good news is that you don’t have to let TMJ control your life.
At Jacobson Family Dental, we offer a wide range of treatment options to alleviate your symptoms and find the relief you need to move forward with your life. Contact us to begin your journey to a healthy, comfortable smile.
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw, allowing you to talk, chew, and yawn.
TMJ disorder can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck and may also affect how the jaw opens and closes. In some cases, TMJ disorder can also cause headaches, earaches, and difficulty with hearing or vision. The exact cause of TMJ disorder is often unknown, but factors such as injury, arthritis, and teeth grinding may contribute to its development.
At Jacobson Family Dental, we’re happy to determine the best treatment to help you alleviate your TMJ symptoms.
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?
The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include the following:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles
- Difficulty or discomfort while opening or closing the mouth
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Aching pain in the face, neck, or shoulders
- Stiffness in the jaw muscles
- Earache or ringing in the ears
- Headache or neck pain
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Sudden changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
- Swelling on the side of the face
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit us at Jacobson Family Dental.
Our approach to TMJ
Our team of TMJ specialists will begin by diagnosing your TMJ pain, allowing us to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your discomfort. The treatment method will depend on the specific cause of your TMJ pain, which may be due to clenching, alignment issues, arthritis, or another underlying factor.
We’ll work with you to provide effective relief from your TMJ pain. Some common treatment options that are effective in reducing TMJ discomfort include:
- Treating any undiagnosed sleep-breathing disorders
- Braces or aligners to correct tooth alignment issues
- Wearing a dental appliance or bite guard to prevent clenching or grinding
- Prescribing muscle relaxers or anti-inflammatory medications
- Recommending jaw surgery in severe cases of TMJ where bone or tissue growth is impeding the joint
Our goal is to provide you with a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and that will help alleviate your TMJ pain so you can regain comfort and quality of life. Dr. Jacobson will work with you to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your oral health.
Call (970) 257-7474 today.
Dr. David Jacobson
Owner
FAQ about TMJ
How long does TMJ treatment take?
The duration of TMJ treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment being used. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes and pain management techniques may provide relief within a few days or weeks. Other treatments, such as physical therapy or dental treatments, may require several weeks or months of consistent effort to see significant improvement.
Can TMJ disorder be prevented?
While there is no surefire way to prevent TMJ disorder, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. Here are some tips for preventing TMJ disorder:
- Practice good posture
- Avoid hard or chewy foods
- Reduce stress
- Wear a mouthguard
- Take breaks from prolonged jaw use
While these steps may not guarantee the prevention of TMJ disorder, they can help reduce your risk of developing this condition and promote overall jaw and muscle health.
What can I do at home to alleviate TMJ symptoms?
There are several things you can do at home to help alleviate TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder symptoms. Here are some tips to try:
- Apply heat or cold
- Do jaw exercises
- Massage the jaw and neck muscles
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- Avoid hard or chewy foods
- Manage stress
Remember, it’s important to talk to Dr. Jacobson before trying any at-home remedies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific case of TMJ disorder.
Why patients choose us
You’re in good hands
Stress-free treatment
Experience matters
We’re known for providing high-quality care and great results from start to finish.
We Accept Insurance
We are in-network with many major insurance companies, including Delta Dental and Medicare Advantage plans. We’re happy to submit claims for out-of-network plans, too.
Contact our office with questions and to learn more.
Join our family of patients
“Great experience every time. Dr. Jacobson is so gentle, detail-oriented, and kind. He explains everything in detail. His staff is friendly, caring, and personable.”
— Marilyn C.
Our Office
M-W: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Alternating Th-F: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
