TMJ Treatment / Teeth Grinding

A TMJ disorder is a problem with your temporomandibular joints, the small joints in front of your ears that help you open and close your mouth. When they're strained or irritated, you can feel jaw pain, popping or clicking, headaches, ear pain, or trouble chewing and opening wide.

Yes, we can help relieve your TMJ pain and protect your teeth. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your jaw joints, bite, and teeth-grinding habits. Then we'll recommend treatments such as a custom night guard and other adjustments. Our combination of treatments can reduce strain, calm inflammation, and allow your jaw to heal over time.

TMJ problems often come from several factors working together. Trauma, arthritis, misaligned teeth, and chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching can all strain your jaw joints. We'll review your symptoms, medical history, and bite. We'll identify likely causes and create a treatment plan for you.

A custom night guard helps by acting as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth while you sleep. It absorbs the pressure from grinding and clenching. This reduces wear, cracks, and sensitivity. It also eases jaw tension and gives your TMJs a chance to rest and recover overnight.

A custom night guard is better because it's made just for your bite. It fits snugly and comfortably, so you're more likely to wear it every night. Store-bought versions often feel bulky and wear out faster. They may not protect your teeth and jaw as effectively or evenly.

Yes, you should be able to sleep comfortably with a custom night guard. It's made using dental impressions. We design it to fit your mouth precisely, so it feels smooth and natural after a short adjustment period. Most patients say they hardly notice it. Soon, you'll feel less jaw soreness and headache in the mornings.

We'll know your teeth are out of alignment by examining your bite, checking wear patterns, and listening to your symptoms. We look for uneven contacts, shifting, or unusual flattening. If we see signs of imbalance, your dentist will discuss whether occlusal adjustment or other treatments can restore your bite to harmony.

TMJ treatment can often reduce or even stop headaches and ear pain linked to jaw tension. When grinding or a bad bite constantly strains your muscles and joints, pain can radiate to your head, temples, and ears. By protecting your teeth and correcting your bite, we address the underlying source.