R. Michael Alvarez, DDS, Inc.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
TMJ THERAPY IN DANVILLE, CALIFORNIA
What Are the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ)?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the hinged joints that connect the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull's temporal bone, which are immediately in front of the ears on the sides of your head. The joints are flexible, allowing the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side and enabling you to talk, chew, and yawn. The muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joints control the position and movement of the jaw. The TMJ are amazing joints, unique in the fact that they are the only joints in our body that not only rotate but slide, thus requiring the discs to slide with them, preventing bone-to-bone contact.
When Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) occurs, one or both discs are not functioning properly, thus allowing bone-to-bone contact. This dysfunction can cause popping, pain, and discomfort, not to mention permanent damage to your joints and teeth over time.
TMJ DENTIST IN DANVILLE, CALIFORNIA
Why Does TMD occur?
What Are the Symptoms of TMD?
TMJ EXPERT IN DANVILLE, CALIFORNIA
What Can Be Done About TMD?
We have been treating patients with TMD since the early 1970s with TMJ Splint Therapy. We have relieved thousands of patients who were suffering. Our holistic approach, with the avoidance of the use of medications, is the key to our success. Rather than simply treating the symptoms, we strive to get to the root cause. A complete medical and dental history is taken on each patient. Depending on the patient’s history, appropriate referrals to specialists may be made in conjunction with TMJ splint therapy. Our office has an onsite lab, and we fabricate the splints ourselves, making for a perfectly balanced appliance.
Does Insurance Cover TMJ Splint Therapy?
It depends on each individual policy. We are contracted with Kaiser Permanente, though you must seek a referral to us through your primary care physician. The referral department will then confirm if you have coverage for this type of treatment and refer you accordingly, usually to the Maxillofacial Department. Then that department refers you to us if needed. Most dental insurances, as well as some medical insurance companies, will cover TMD treatment. Though we are out of network, we will collect your insurance information, inform you of your benefits, and try to get you covered.
Our goal is to minimize your stress by providing you with optimal service. If we can be of any help to you, please contact our office today.
TMD DIAGNOSIS IN DANVILLE, CALIFORNIA
Contact Our Office Today for More Information About TMJ/TMD
For more information about Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction and to find out whether you or a member of your family might be experiencing these problems, contact our Danville, CA office or our Fremont, CA office at 510-713-6790 and 925-837-8048 or request an appointment online. We conform to all state and local laws within the state of California.