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DENTURE RELINING IN BOULDER, CO TMJ/TMD IN BOULDER, CO

Explore Our Solutions For TM

Patients looking for TMJ treatment should consider complete health dentistry, as it focuses on how the patient’s overall health may affect and be affected by their condition. At best, TMJ is an annoyance. At worst, it is excruciatingly inescapable. A TMJ dentist knows how to address the root cause of this condition rather than just temporarily alleviating its symptoms.

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Why complete health dentistry is important

Complete health dentists take a more comprehensive approach to dentistry. Instead of treating a patient’s isolated symptoms, they consider all aspects of their health and how they may affect each other. As such, complete health dentists dedicate themselves to find the root cause of their patient’s conditions. This allows them to treat their overall health through their oral health. It also makes it possible to identify signs of other, broader health conditions.
This is especially important when dealing with TMJ since it is linked with so many other systemic conditions. Studies have shown that TMJ patients are more sensitive to pain. They also present body pain areas more frequently than their counterparts. Experts hypothesize that this implies a generalized dysfunction of the patient’s nociceptive system, the sensory nervous system’s way of encoding harmful stimuli. Thus, those with TMJ may have high rates of other painful conditions and systemic diseases occuring at the same time.
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Understanding TMJ

Complete health dentists take a more comprehensive approach to dentistry. Instead of treating a patient’s isolated symptoms, they consider all aspects of their health and how they may affect each other. As such, complete health dentists dedicate themselves to find the root cause of their patient’s conditions. This allows them to treat their overall health through their oral health. It also makes it possible to identify signs of other, broader health conditions.
It can be challenging to determine the exact cause of a patient’s TMJ disorder, especially since there may be several different factors at play. These include but are not limited to arthritis, genetics, and jaw injury. Those with jaw pain are also likely to have bruxism, a condition in which one clenches or grinds their teeth. However, not everyone with bruxism has TMJ (or vice versa).
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Call us to schedule an appointment today

When choosing a primary dental care provider, you want to make sure that they can cover all the bases — including treating your TMJ. Our complete health dentist at PeakView Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry may be able to help.
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(303) 578-5800

Recognizing the Signs of TMJ

TMJ disorders can cause severe pain and discomfort, which may either be temporary or last years. This may affect either one or both sides of the face. It affects women more commonly than men, and it shows up most frequently in patients between the ages of 20 and 40. Common symptoms of TMJ include:
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A bite that suddenly feels uncomfortable
Feeling “tired” in the face
Jaws getting “stuck” or “locked” in the open- or closed-mouth position
Pain or tenderness in or around the ear
Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck, and shoulders
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Problems opening the mouth wide
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Swelling on the side of the face
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Trouble chewing
Many of these symptoms overlap with other conditions, making proper diagnosis critical. A complete health dentist will conduct a physical exam and ask the patient about their health history to rule out (or identify) any other health issues the patient may have. They will also check the jaw, bite, and facial muscles for functionality. Full-face X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may also be necessary, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition.
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Understanding TMJ

TMJ is associated with several other health issues, including but not limited to, orofacial manifestations, scoliosis, and periodontal disease. Orofacial manifestations of TMJ include painful chewing, maximal mouth opening, and TMJ morning stiffness. At least one study has also shown that scoliosis could contribute to the restricted range of motion associated with TMJ disorders by causing a muscular imbalance. Additionally, any unilateral chewing associated with chronic periodontitis may also cause structural changes in the temporomandibular joint and worsen any secondary symptoms. Thus, treating any of these conditions has the potential to treat all others. symptoms, they consider all aspects of their health and how they may affect each other. As such, complete health dentists dedicate themselves to find the root cause of their patient’s conditions. This allows them to treat their overall health through their oral health. It also makes it possible to identify signs of other, broader health conditions.
As complete health dentists are dedicated to a patient’s total wellness, they are well-aware of such issues and can identify and treat them accordingly. No condition exists in isolation; instead, they are all inextricably linked. With patients’ permission, complete health dentists can forward any relevant information to all pertinent healthcare providers to devise a comprehensive, custom-made treatment plan tailor-made to best meet their needs and improve their overall health.
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Treating TMJ

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TMJ symptoms sometimes go away without treatment. However, if symptoms persist, patients may need to seek medical treatment. A complete health dentist can identify the symptoms’ root cause and devise a customized treatment plan tailor-made for the patient’s unique and individual needs. If over-the-counter pain medication does not relieve a patient’s discomfort, a dentist may prescribe more potent pain relievers and anti-inflammatories on an as-needed basis.
Oral appliances, such as splints or mouth guards, may also help, as those with jaw pain often benefit from wearing a soft or firm device over their teeth. Certain jaw exercises may assist in stretching and strengthening the jaw muscles. Physical therapy for jaw pain may include ultrasound, moist heat, and ice. Surgery may be necessary if these treatments are insufficient. Such procedures include arthrocentesis, TMJ arthroscopy, modified condylotomy, and open-joint surgery. Some patients also benefit from corticosteroid injections.
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TMJ/TMD FAQs

Is there anything I can do to alleviate my TMJ symptoms at home?
TMJ flare-ups are common and typically resolve themselves within a few weeks. Still, this does not lessen the importance of treatment — especially if your symptoms cause discomfort. Encouraging the jaw joint to relax can assist in healing. You can do this by applying moist heat or ice to the affected area, resting the jaw by avoiding unnecessary use, supporting the jaw when , and reducing stress levels. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can also help. Reduce your stress levels if possible, and consider jaw exercises.
One exercise you can try is to push down on the bottom teeth with one hand while pushing upwards with your jaw. You may also want to try placing your thumb below the chin, putting light pressure on the chin bone. Open your mouth slowly, working against the resistance.
It is possible. Many people experience headaches and migraines due to TMJ pain, which may also radiate to the shoulders. It typically begins near the ears, forehead, or scalp. As such, TMJ headaches are commonly mistaken for tension headaches.
In splint therapy, a splint (also known as a mouth or bite guard) is placed over the teeth to prevent the patient from grinding their teeth, clenching their jaw, or doing any other movement that could aggravate their TMJ. Splints are custom-made for each patient’s individual needs, meaning they may be either soft or hard. Splints relax the muscles in the mouth and support the bite
As every patient is different, the answer to this varies on a case-by-case basis. Typically, however, patients should not wear a splint for more than six months at a time, as overusing a splint can cause further issues. Dr. Olsen can discuss this further with you while devising your individualized treatment plan.

Meet Our Doctors

Discover the passion and commitment that drives our dental team

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Dr. Kwiatkowski

Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski, a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, has received multiple awards for his outstanding achievements in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He is a recipient of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists’ Pre-doctoral Student Achievement Award and a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.

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Dr. Hearne

Dr. Hearne, originally from Las Vegas, was inspired to become a dentist at the age of 12 by a close family friend who was a renowned dentist. With a foundation in customer service and excellence from his early career in the hotel industry, Dr. Hearne was further inspired to become a compassionate caregiver for his patients after the passing of his younger brother to cystic fibrosis at the age of 7.

Dr. Olsen

I was born in Ogden, Utah and always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. After serving an LDS mission in South Africa and getting married, I studied biology at Weber State University and attended the prestigious Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. There, I received multiple awards for clinical excellence before settling down in St. George with my family.

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Smile Gallery

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Google Reviews

Patient-centered dental care that exceeds expectations

Gina Putnam

★★★★★ 5/5
October 8, 2023
Everyone is very professional, super friendly, and makes sure that you can achieve the aesthetics that you’re looking for within your budget. Ashley is one of the best! She’s helped both my Mom and me and made us feel very comfortable every time we’re in the office. I highly recommend this office for implants, whether it’s 1 tooth or a full mouth full! I like this place so much that I actually drive all the way from the airport area to this Boulder location!

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Danielle Schaper

★★★★★ 5/5
October 4, 2023
I’ve never felt so welcome and so cared for as I have coming to this office. The staff is truly one of a kind. I’ll be writing another glowing review once they actually do my implants because I’m sure they are going to completely transform my smile and help me feel like me again.

Read more

Cheryl Himes

★★★★★ 5/5
September 19, 2023
This is a wonderful place to go, everyone is so friendly and helpful. I knew right alway this was the place to be. I checked out probably 3 different places and this is the one that I picked. I would highly recommend it here!

Read more

Sheila Cullen

★★★★★ 5/5
September 12, 2023
Everyone that works here is wonderful! I am high maintenance and emotional about my teeth. They have been understanding and are doing their absolute best given my circumstances.

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Bill Solley

★★★★★ 5/5
September 5, 2023
Dr. K Is amazing. My case was probably one of the more time consuming and difficult the office had dealt with. Throught the whole process I was always treated with the most caring staff as well as Dr. K ‘s pursuit of perfection. Mission accomplished Doc! Thanks to all who had a hand in my journey.

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Patti Davis

★★★★★ 5/5
September 1, 2023
PeakView Dentistry definitely exceeded my expectations! They provided me with options that were just what I was hoping for, but didn’t know existed.

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Phoebe Draper

★★★★★ 5/5
July 27, 2023
process of booking as a new patient was so seamless. every employee including doc was so kind and they were super transparent about insurance costs and answering all my questions. 10/10

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Clancy Wells

★★★★★ 5/5
July 17, 2023
I’m so glad that I found PeakView Dentistry. The Doctors and staff are experienced and professional. They have been very friendly and supportive to me throughout the process. I highly recommend this amazing team to anyone who may need implants, bone grafting or any type of dental surgery.

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Ready To Change Your Smile?

Ready to change your smile?We offer the most innovative dental solutions to meet your individual needs and lifestyles, no matter your age.
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(303) 578-5800

Ready To Change Your Smile?

Ready to change your smile?We offer the most innovative dental solutions to meet your individual needs and lifestyles, no matter your age.
Schedule Now
(303) 578-5800

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4.8

★★★★★ 5/5

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What our customers say

Gina Putnam

★★★★★ 5/5
October 8, 2023
Everyone is very professional, super friendly, and makes sure that you can achieve the aesthetics that you’re looking for within your budget. Ashley is one of the best! She’s helped both my Mom and me and made us feel very comfortable every time we’re in the office. I highly recommend this office for implants, whether it’s 1 tooth or a full mouth full! I like this place so much that I actually drive all the way from the airport area to this Boulder location!

Read more

Danielle Schaper

★★★★★ 5/5
October 4, 2023
I’ve never felt so welcome and so cared for as I have coming to this office. The staff is truly one of a kind. I’ll be writing another glowing review once they actually do my implants because I’m sure they are going to completely transform my smile and help me feel like me again.

Read more

Cheryl Himes

★★★★★ 5/5
September 19, 2023
This is a wonderful place to go, everyone is so friendly and helpful. I knew right alway this was the place to be. I checked out probably 3 different places and this is the one that I picked. I would highly recommend it here!

Read more

Sheila Cullen

★★★★★ 5/5
September 12, 2023
Everyone that works here is wonderful! I am high maintenance and emotional about my teeth. They have been understanding and are doing their absolute best given my circumstances.

Read more

Bill Solley

★★★★★ 5/5
September 5, 2023
Dr. K Is amazing. My case was probably one of the more time consuming and difficult the office had dealt with. Throught the whole process I was always treated with the most caring staff as well as Dr. K ‘s pursuit of perfection. Mission accomplished Doc! Thanks to all who had a hand in my journey.

Read more

Patti Davis

★★★★★ 5/5
September 1, 2023
PeakView Dentistry definitely exceeded my expectations! They provided me with options that were just what I was hoping for, but didn’t know existed.

Read more