Jaw pain, clicking sounds when you open your mouth, and difficulty chewing can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect millions of Americans, causing discomfort from the complex joints connecting your jawbone to your skull and often leading to headaches, facial pain, and even neck tension.
At Sopris Smiles in Cherry Hills Village, Dr. Golnaz Samimifar provides comprehensive TMJ treatment using advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care approaches. With over 1,000 hours of continuing education and cutting-edge tools including CBCT scanning and digital bite analysis, we identify the root causes of your jaw dysfunction and develop effective treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
The temporomandibular joints are among the most complex in your body, allowing your jaw to move in multiple directions for chewing, speaking, and yawning. TMJ disorders occur when these joints or the muscles controlling jaw movement become dysfunctional, creating a cascade of uncomfortable symptoms throughout your head and neck region.
Common signs of TMJ dysfunction include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth, difficulty opening your mouth wide, and frequent headaches. Many patients also experience ear pain, facial pain, and even shoulder or neck discomfort. The condition can develop gradually or appear suddenly, often triggered by stress, teeth grinding, injury, or bite misalignment.
Our comprehensive examination goes far beyond checking for cavities. We evaluate your occlusion (bite) using advanced digital technology, as improper bite forces can cause TMJ problems just like poor car alignment leads to uneven tire wear. Most people should have less than 1mm of tooth wear over a lifetime, so excessive wear may indicate bite-related TMJ issues.
We utilize CBCT (cone beam CT scan) technology as part of our evaluation process, allowing us to assess your jaw joints, airway size, and surrounding structures with exceptional detail. This three-dimensional imaging helps us identify structural abnormalities, joint inflammation, or other factors contributing to your TMJ symptoms. We also screen for related conditions like sleep apnea, which often coexists with TMJ disorders.
Our diagnostic process includes evaluating your tongue posture, swallowing patterns, and potential airway obstructions. These factors can significantly impact jaw function and may contribute to both TMJ symptoms and sleep breathing disorders, which increase your risk for serious health conditions including stroke, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.
Advanced dental technology for efficient, comfortable treatments with same-day results and faster healing.
TMJ treatment varies significantly based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. For many patients, conservative approaches provide substantial relief and help prevent progression of the condition. We may recommend custom-fitted oral appliances designed to reduce teeth grinding and clenching, particularly during sleep when these habits often occur unnoticed.
Studies show more than 70% of dentists have noticed increased signs of teeth grinding and clenching in patients, with this number rising nearly 10% in recent years. Our custom night guards help protect your teeth from grinding damage while positioning your jaw in a more comfortable, relaxed position during sleep.
For patients with bite-related TMJ issues, we may suggest orthodontic treatment or bite adjustment procedures. We also work with board-certified orthodontist Dr. Matt Stout through BeSmyle to ensure comprehensive treatment planning when needed. This collaborative approach means you receive the highest standard of care for all your dental needs.
Beyond appliance therapy, we provide guidance on lifestyle modifications help manage TMJ symptoms. Stress reduction techniques, jaw exercises, and dietary adjustments can significantly improve your comfort level and help prevent symptom recurrence.
Our advanced technology includes Solea laser therapy, which can provide relief for some TMJ-related muscle tension without the need for injections or invasive procedures. This innovative approach appeals particularly to patients with dental anxiety or those seeking comfortable treatment options.
Discover the difference at Sopris Smiles with Dr. Golnaz Samimifar. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
TMJ disorders rarely exist in isolation and often connect to broader health concerns. Sleep breathing disorders, stress, and systemic inflammation can all contribute to jaw dysfunction, while TMJ symptoms can worsen these same conditions, creating a cycle of discomfort and health complications.
Our holistic approach considers your entire health picture when planning TMJ treatment. We evaluate not just your jaw joints but also your sleep quality, stress levels, and overall oral health. This comprehensive perspective helps us address contributing factors while providing targeted relief for your immediate symptoms.
Research continues to reveal connections between oral health and systemic conditions. Just as gum disease links to cardiovascular problems, TMJ disorders may impact your sleep quality, stress levels, and overall well-being. Our treatment approach addresses these interconnected health factors rather than focusing solely on symptom management.
Living with TMJ pain doesn’t have to be your new normal. Effective treatment can restore comfortable jaw function, eliminate headaches, and improve your quality of life significantly. Dr. Golnaz Samimifar and our experienced team combine advanced diagnostic technology with personalized treatment approaches to address the root causes of your TMJ symptoms.
As members of prestigious organizations including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Dental Association, we bring extensive knowledge and clinical experience to every TMJ case. Our patient-centric approach focuses on becoming your new friend, not just your new dentist, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout your treatment journey. Contact us today at (303) 761-2999 or schedule your comprehensive evaluation online to discover how TMJ treatment can restore your comfort and oral health.
We’re conveniently located in Englewood, CO, serving both Englewood and Cherry Hills communities in the charming Marks complex. Our office offers free, dedicated parking in an abundant on-site lot, ensuring a stress-free arrival for every visit. Located just off Hampden Ave (US-285) with quick access to Broadway, Lincoln, I-25, and C-470, we’re perfectly positioned for easy access from all parts of the Denver metro area. Whether you’re driving or taking public transit, getting to your appointment has never been more convenient.
Sopris Smiles is thrilled to welcome the patients of Dr. Gregory Bevans
