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Archive for the ‘TMJ – TMD’ Category

Treating Bite Problems in Birmingham

Sunday, April 4th, 2010

Treating Bite Problems in Birmingham Malocclusions (bite problems) include overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Jaw alignment disorders restrict proper chewing, talking, and swallowing. They can also cause teeth to shift around in the mouth. Birmingham dentistry patients with bite problems are at a greater risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease because bite misalignment often makes it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.

When the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, it is called an overbite. When the situation is reversed, it is called an underbite. Crossbite occurs when lower teeth are in the wrong position.

Bite problems can cause headaches and TMJ pain. Some dental patients with severe bite problems develop a distorted facial shape and damaged teeth.

If you suspect your toddler or older child has a bite problem, it is important to see your Mountain Brook dentist as soon as possible. Bite issues and their various related problems get worse over time.

At Koch Aesthetic Dentistry, we diagnose and successfully treat bite problems in addition to providing general and cosmetic dentistry. We can be reached at 205-202-8618. Our office is located at 2311 Highland Avenue, Suite 323 in Birmingham. You can find more about us at http://www.KochAesthetics.com.

Most of our patients live in Birmingham or nearby in Vestavia Hills, Crestline or Homewood. If you have recently moved into the Mountain Brook area and need a skilled family and cosmetic dentist, come visit our office.  We are passionate about your smile, your comfort, and your professional care team. We pamper every patient and make dental visits as comfortable as possible.

Overbites And Underbites in Birmingham

Wednesday, March 18th, 2009

Overbites And Underbites When the upper part of the jaw and the lower part of the jaw are not the same size, bite problems can occur. When the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, it is called an overbite. When the reverse is true, it is called an underbite. Another related alignment disorder is called a crossbite. Crossbites occur when lower teeth are in the wrong position. They may be incorrectly positioned sideways, forward or backward.

Malocclusion (literally ‘bad bite’) is the term used for all types of bite problems including overbites, underbites and crossbites. Jaw alignment disorders can cause a range of problems and often prohibit proper chewing and/or swallowing. Teeth can shift around in the mouth, causing even more discomfort or difficulty. Gum disease and tooth decay are also harder to prevent because proper oral hygiene can be difficult with a malocclusion. TMJ disorder can develop over time. Distorted facial shape and unattractive teeth are often the most noticeable and troubling issues for those affected.

Fortunately, there are a variety of effective treatments for bite problems. If you suspect your child has a bite misalignment, it is especially important to have them examined as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure they avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.

Call Koch Aesthetic Dentistry at 205-202-8618. Dr. J. Paul Koch, DMD is experienced in providing treatment for bite disorders in patients of all ages. We can create a successful treatment plan for you.

-Koch Aesthetic Dentistry

Birmingham TMJ Treatment

Wednesday, November 19th, 2008

Birmingham TMJ Treatment

Are you one of the many Birmingham TMJ sufferers? If you are affected by Temporomandibular joint or TMJ disorder, you know how the pain and discomfort can impact your life. Koch Aesthetic Dentistry has helped countless grateful Birmingham, Alabama TMJ patients by providing treatment and therapy to manage their TMJ disorder.

The Temporomandibular or jaw joint connects the lower jaw bone to the skull. Symptoms of TMJ disorder include jaw and facial pain, headaches, earaches, neck pain and chewing difficulty. TMJ disease is often associated with jaw clicking, locking or clenching, and can cause tooth damage and bone loss.

Many TMJ patients first unsuccessfully pursue relief from their frequent headaches. Many people do not realize they have TMJ disorder because it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what is causing the pain. At Koch Aesthetic Dentistry, we can properly determine your specific TMJ issues and recommend an effective course of action.

Because a comprehensive treatment plan is most successful, we work hand-in-hand with a network of Birmingham TMJ specialists including ENT doctors, neurologists and physical therapists. There are many facets to this often misunderstood disorder. If you are suffering from jaw pain, we recommend a consultation with Dr. J. Paul Koch at Koch Aesthetic Dentistry in Birmingham.

Koch Aesthetic Dentistry

2311 Highland Avenue, Suite 323, Birmingham, AL

Birmingham, Alabama 35205

205-202-8618

At Koch Aesthetic Dentistry, we take jaw pain seriously.