TMJ & TMD

Dr. Grantham in Copperas Cove, Texas is skilled in the identification and treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction. Your temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are in front of each ear. It lets you move your jaw up and down and side-to-side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn.

Cosmetic Services

Problems with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). But you may also hear it referred to as TMJ, after the joint. Dr. Grantham knows TMJ can be painful and wants you to come to him for help.

What causes TMD/TMJ?

Trauma, disease, wear or grinding, osteoarthritis, or Rheumatoid arthritis can all lead to TMJ syndrome. It is not always clear what has caused the disorder, but the discomfort is always evident.

What are the symptoms of TMD/TMJ?

TMJ is painful. That pain can manifest itself differently depending on the patient. Often patients will feel pain in the facial muscles and jaw joints that may even radiate into the neck. You might feel dizzy or get frequent headaches. You may feel pain in the jaw joint when you talk, chew, yawn, or otherwise open and close your mouth. Sometimes people mistake TMJ for ear problems as it can cause pain or ringing in the ears. You may also be able to hear popping, grating, or clicking. Your face may swell on the affected side as well. Sometimes the jaw can lock in an open position or a more closed-mouthed position. The jaw may feel crooked and you may favor opening to one side over the other. Muscle spasms may make it difficult to swallow, and in some cases, folks feel dizzy and vomit because of their TMJ. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ, please don’t hesitate to come see us.

Joint Vibration Analysis

JVA provides Dr. Grantham with a non-invasive measurement of TMJ function in order to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD. It also informs him if you are coming in for orthodontics or reconstructive dentistry.

TMD/TMJ is a serious issue that Dr. Grantham and his team can address. If you are worried about the costs of assessment or treatment of your TMJ, please know we offer in-office financing to our patients to help ease the potential worry of cost. Give us a call today at (254) 845-7531 to make an appointment.

6 Month Smiles Cosmetic Braces

Many Copperas Texas residents feel they have missed the opportunity for a straight smile. Oftentimes, adults don’t want the financial burden or time commitment of traditional braces.  The good news is that Cove Family Dental can get you the straight smile you thought you could never have in as little as 6 months. We offer a cosmetic alternative to traditional braces called 6 Month Smiles. 6 Month Smiles can correct crooked teeth, crowded teeth, overlapped teeth, or spaces or gaps between teeth in as little as 6 months!

For many, the financial aspect of cosmetic dentistry has stopped them from realizing their full smile potential. At Cove Family Dental, we don’t want you to wait any longer!  We offer smart, in-office financing that can help you achieve your goals sensibly.

Many patients that come visit us would like to change something about their smile. Whether it is to lighten stained teeth or close gaps or spaces between teeth, most have something they would love to quickly and easily transform. The great news is Dr. Grantham can provide the new smile and confidence you have always wanted. Come on in and let us know what you are looking for — we would love to help! Give us a call at (254) 845-7531.

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