Relief From Jaw Pain, Clicking, and Headaches
Eating shouldn't hurt. Talking shouldn't make your jaw ache. If jaw pain, clicking, and tension headaches are affecting your day, you may have a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. These symptoms often relate to your jaw joints, your bite, or clenching and grinding you may not even realize you're doing. We'll take the time to understand what's causing your symptoms and create a gentle, personalized treatment plan to help relieve your discomfort and improve how your jaw feels and functions.
Signs of a TMJ problem
Your jaw joints (called the temporomandibular joints, or TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull. When these joints or the muscles around them are not working comfortably, the symptoms can show up in surprising ways.
- Jaw pain, tenderness, or tiredness
- Clicking, popping, or grating when you open your mouth or chew
- Frequent tension headaches
- A jaw that locks or feels stuck
- Worn or sensitive teeth from grinding
How we treat TMJ
We start by understanding what is behind your symptoms — clenching, a bite that does not line up, stress, muscle tension, or a combination of factors. From there, we create a treatment plan that usually begins with gentle, reversible options.
A custom nightguard can often reduce the strain caused by nighttime grinding and clenching. Depending on your needs, we may also recommend small bite adjustments, simple jaw exercises, and strategies to help reduce habits that contribute to muscle tension. For selected patients, therapeutic Botox may also be recommended to help relax overactive jaw muscles. Every treatment plan is tailored to your individual situation.
The whole-body connection
Jaw tension rarely exists on its own. Stress, poor sleep, posture, and even everyday habits can all play a part. In keeping with our prevention-first, whole-person approach, we look beyond the jaw joint itself to better understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and how to help reduce them over time.
Why patients choose Power Smile
We look for the cause
Rather than simply treating the symptoms, we look at your bite, your jaw joints, muscles, and your habits to understand what may be contributing to your discomfort.
Gentle, non-surgical options first
Most TMJ problems can be managed with conservative, reversible treatments such as nightguards, small bite adjustments, jaw exercises, and habit awareness.
Whole-body perspective
Stress, posture, sleep, and muscle tension can all influence how your jaw feels. We consider these factors when developing your treatment plan.
Coordinated care
We can bring nightguards, therapeutic Botox, and other tools together in one place to coordinate your care and adjust your treatment plan as your symptoms improve.
Frequently asked questions
What causes TMJ problems?+
Common causes include clenching and grinding, a bite that does not line up, stress, muscle tension, a jaw injury, or a combination of these factors. Part of our job is identifying what may be contributing to your symptoms so we can focus on the cause—not just relieving the discomfort.
Do I need surgery for TMJ?+
Most people do not. Most TMJ cases improve with conservative care like nightguards, small bite adjustments, and habit changes. Surgery is rarely the first step, and we always begin with the least invasive treatment appropriate for your situation.
Can a nightguard really help my jaw pain?+
Often, yes. A custom-made nightguard can help reduce the pressure on your teeth, muscles, and jaw joints if nighttime grinding or clenching is contributing to your symptoms. Because it is made specifically for your bite, it is generally more comfortable and effective than an over-the-counter appliance.
How long until I feel relief?+
Everyone is different. Some people notice improvement within a few weeks, while others may take longer depending on the underlying cause and how long the problem has been present. We'll explain what you can realistically expect and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?+
Coverage varies. Some treatments, like custom nightguards, may be covered in part, depending on your dental plan. Before beginning treatment, we'll explain your options, review any available insurance or CDCP benefits, and provide a clear estimate of costs.
Ready when you are.
Book your visit today — we'll get to know you, look after your whole smile, and make you feel right at home.