TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment in Castle Rock, CO
Chronic jaw pain, clicking or popping when you chew, frequent headaches, or teeth grinding at night — these are all signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, one of the most common yet underdiagnosed dental conditions.
At Oakwood Dental in Castle Rock, CO, Dr. Jones and Dr. Zendig evaluate and treat TMJ disorders using comfortable, non-surgical approaches customized to your symptoms. You don’t have to live with jaw pain.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jawbone to your skull and act like sliding hinges, enabling you to talk, chew, and yawn. When these joints are overworked, misaligned, or inflamed, TMJ disorder (also called TMD) results. Causes include:
- Bruxism (grinding or clenching teeth, often during sleep)
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Arthritis in the joint
- Stress-induced jaw clenching
- Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
- Displacement of the cushioning disc inside the joint
TMJ Symptoms We Treat
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening/closing the mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the jaw (unable to open or close mouth fully)
- Aching pain in and around the ear
- Frequent headaches or migraines, especially in the morning
- Facial pain or soreness
- Neck and shoulder tension linked to jaw dysfunction
TMJ Treatment Options at Oakwood Dental
Custom Night Guard (Occlusal Splint)
A precisely fitted oral appliance worn during sleep that prevents teeth grinding and reduces stress on the TMJ. This is the most common and effective first-line treatment for bruxism-related TMJ pain.
Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)
When an uneven bite is contributing to TMJ strain, we carefully reshape specific tooth surfaces to redistribute biting forces more evenly.
Restorative Dentistry
Worn, chipped, or missing teeth can contribute to bite imbalances. Restoring these teeth — with crowns, implants, or other restorations — can eliminate the underlying cause of TMJ stress.
Physical Therapy and Lifestyle Recommendations
We provide targeted jaw exercises, posture guidance, and stress-management recommendations to support healing alongside dental treatment.
Call 303-688-3860 or Book Online to Schedule Your Appointment
TMJ FAQs
How do I know if I have TMJ disorder?
The most common signs are jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, frequent headaches, and difficulty chewing. If you grind your teeth at night, you are at higher risk. Schedule an evaluation at Oakwood Dental and we will diagnose your condition with a thorough exam.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
Mild cases sometimes improve with lifestyle changes and home care (soft diet, warm compresses, stress reduction). However, untreated TMJ disorder can worsen over time, causing increasing pain, worn teeth, and joint damage. Early treatment produces the best outcomes.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Some dental insurance plans cover night guards. TMJ treatment may also be partially covered by medical insurance depending on diagnosis. Our team can help you navigate your benefits.