Request Request an Appointment Call Call Our Office Map Map Us

Enjoy Life Without Jaw and Facial Pain: TMD Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO

July 25, 2014

shutterstock_196648349Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, is a condition that affects the hinge joints that connect your jaw to your skull. The structures of the muscles, bone, ligaments, and nerves in this area are incredibly delicate and complex, making them susceptible to damage and discomfort. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson have studied TMJ disorder and its treatment extensively, providing patients with the solutions they need to find lasting relief from their symptoms.

The Importance of Treating TMD

The TMJ allows the jaw to open, close, and move side to side for speaking, eating, yawning, and more. When a patient is affected by TMJ disorder, even these seemingly simple actions become difficult. Painful inflammation in the jaw and near the ear can place an inordinate amount of pressure on nerves, sending aching sensations throughout the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back. Other symptoms of TMD include:

  • Tenderness or pain in the muscles of the face
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • An odd popping or clicking noise when the jaw is opened or closed
  • Limited range of jaw movement
  • A feeling that the jaw is locked in place (open or closed)
  • General tired feeling in facial and neck muscles
  • A sudden sensation of discomfort or pain when chewing

TMD treatment at Anderson Family Dental will be personalized to suit your unique needs, and may include the use of a custom nightguard, orthodontic treatment, and stress management. Our team is here to ensure your complete oral health and overall wellness, and we aren’t satisfied until you feel your absolute best.

Say Goodbye to Chronic TMJ Pain

If you suspect that you may be suffering from TMD and you’re ready to experience life without daily discomfort, contact our office today to schedule your consultation with our experienced, caring doctors and staff. We can’t wait to show you what a difference our customized TMD treatment can make in your life. Our conveniently located office in Colorado Springs, CO also serves patients from throughout the surrounding areas of Stratmoor, Falcon, Black Forest, Fort Carson, and more.

How Do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea? OSA Information from Anderson Family Dental

July 9, 2014

Shutterstock Sleep Apnea SnoringIs your sleep often interrupted due to snoring or odd breathing sounds from your partner? Perhaps you suffer from excessive snoring yourself in addition to feelings of exhaustion during the day. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson offer a variety of general and family dental solutions to help our patients achieve and maintain optimal health and wellness. One of these services is the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA.

Do I Have Sleep Apnea?

Though clinical testing is required in order to definitively diagnose a condition like sleep apnea, there are some warning signs that you can keep in mind and share with your doctor if certain symptoms arise. Common symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea include the following:

  • Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
  • Worsened depression or irritability
  • Excessive daytime fatigue
  • Feeling unreasonably drowsy when driving or at work
  • Loud snoring, often interrupted by gasps or choking sounds
  • Waking suddenly from a deep sleep with a feeling of breathlessness
  • Night sweats
  • Difficulty concentrating on even simple tasks
  • Headaches throughout the day, particularly in the morning

A test that measures your breathing, blood oxygen level, and other factors while you sleep can aid in diagnosing sleep apnea. If it turns out that OSA is the reason for your troubles, our doctors can help. With the use of a customized oral appliance – often called a nightguard or a snore guard – you may be able to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea in a way that is easy and comfortable. You simply wear the appliance while you sleep, and it effectively keeps your tongue and jaw in their proper positions throughout the night. This keeps the airway open and unobstructed, and typically helps prevent snoring as well.

Schedule Your Visit Today

If you suffer from sleep apnea or excessive snoring, now is the time to take a step toward a healthier life and more restful sleep. Contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO today to schedule your consultation with Drs. Anderson and Anderson. We look forward to serving you! We also welcome patients from the nearby areas of Black Forest, Fort Carson, Falcon, Stratmoor, and beyond.