Naples TMJ Dentist

Are you looking for a dentist experienced in treating TMJ disorder? Since TMJ treatment isn’t a recognized specialty, there actually is no such thing as a TMJ specialist. However, some dentists obtain postgraduate education to provide expert treatment for TMD. Dr. Robert Bracho of Naples General & Cosmetic Dentistry has received advanced training in TMJ disorder, occlusion, and full-mouth reconstruction at the Dawson Academy.

The Complex TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—or jaw joint—is the body’s most complex joint. Located in front of both ears, this joint connects the skull’s temporal bones to the mandible, or lower jawbone. The four muscles that control jaw movement—the masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid—allow the jaw to move up and down, backward and forward, and side to side. Both sides of the mandible meet the skull in round protrusions called condyles. As the TMJ muscles pull the mouth open or closed, the condyles slide along the socket, while a disk made of fibrocartilage absorbs the impact of the movement. Dysfunction of any of the many components of the temporomandibular area is known as TMJ disorder (TMD).

TMJ Disorder: Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of TMD vary from person to person and may affect any of the following areas:

• Jaw Joint/Muscles
  • Pain
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sensations
  • Stiffness, limited movement, or locking
• Head/Neck/Shoulders
  • Pain
  • Chronic headaches
• Ears
  • Pain
  • Pressure
  • Ringing (tinnitus)

TMD Treatment at Naples General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Bracho will perform a thorough oral examination and review of your medical history to determine the appropriate treatment for your TMJ disorder. He may recommend:

• Dysport (an alternative to Botox) injections to alleviate jaw pain and tension
• A bite splint for night wear to prevent teeth grinding and relieve jaw tension
• Full-mouth reconstruction

Dr. Bracho’s related postgraduate training includes courses in occlusion (bite), TMJ disorder, and full-mouth reconstruction at the Dawson Academy and Spear Education.

Full-Mouth Reconstruction

One cause of TMJ disorder is occlusal (bite) dysfunction. This can be caused by severe or uneven wearing of the teeth, injury to the mouth, or improper dental work. If you’re suffering from severe TMJ disorder due to bite misalignment, we can help. Dr. Bracho can restore proper bite function by performing a series of treatments, including full-mouth reconstruction when necessary.

Full-mouth reconstruction provides a solution to problems that may have affected your daily life for years. Yours may include:

• Crowns
• Bridges
• Dental implants

Experience Relief

We’d love to help relieve your TMD symptoms. To get started, give us a call at (239) 262-1535. Or simply request an appointment online, and we’ll contact you to set one up.