Boulder TMJ

Dr. Mark J. Birnbach is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about TMJ.


Q. What is TMJ?

A. TMJ stands for "temporomandibular joint," or jaw joint. These are the small joints in front of each ear that attach the lower jaw to the skull, and happen to be the most complex joints in the entire body. The area of the face where the TMJ is located is an intricate network of bones, including the teeth, muscles, and nerves. Because of this, TMJ (dysfunction) conditions affect many areas of the body, from the top of the head in migraine-like headaches to numbness or tingling in the arms and pain in the neck or shoulders.

Q. How do I know if I have TMJ?

A. In many cases people suffering from TMJ / TMD report chronic pain in the jaw, teeth, face, head, neck, shoulders, or back, or any combination of these areas. Snoring, grinding of teeth, frequent ear infections and restricted airway are other problems associated with TMJ / TMD.

Q. Can pain killers help in treating TMJ syndrome?

A. They can relieve symptoms, but don’t treat the cause. In some cases the medications can create "rebound" headaches and other symptoms.

Q. Who should treat TMD?

A. It is a team effort- dentist, chiropractor/osteopath, physical therapist.

Q. What should you expect from a TMD doctor?

A. Someone who listens, reviews symptoms, reviews previous treatment and medications taken, explains findings and proposed treatment.

Q. What results can I expect from surgery?

A. Absolutely the last resort if no other modality helps.

Q. Is TMJ/TMD covered by insurance?

A. Every insurance company is different. Coverage may vary between medical and dental.

Q. How to contact Dr. Birnbach if we have further questions?    

A.
Address:
1636 16th Street
Boulder, Colorado 80302
Phone: 303-443-4417
Email: drsmile@bouldersmiles.com
Website: www.bouldersmiles.com