What is TMJ / TMD?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull (temporal bone). Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) — often just called “TMJ problems” — refer to a range of conditions that affect this joint, the muscles around it, and the way your jaw moves. Symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Limited range of motion (jaw locking or “stuck” feeling)
- Facial pain, headaches, earaches, or neck pain
- Jaw fatigue, especially after chewing
At Revitalize Implant Center, we understand how disruptive TMJ symptoms can be to daily life. Our goal is to provide you relief, restore function, and create long-term solutions.
Why Choose Us for TMJ Treatment?
- Comprehensive evaluation
We begin with a detailed assessment — reviewing your dental history, jaw alignment, bite mechanics, and imaging studies (X-rays, CBCT scans) to pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms. - Integrated approach
Because TMJ issues are often multifactorial, we don’t rely on a single “fix.” We combine:- Occlusal (bite) adjustments
- Stabilization splints or custom night guards
- Orthodontic or prosthetic corrections when needed
- Physical therapy and muscle exercises
- Referral or coordination with pain specialists or ENT where necessary
- State-of-the-art technology
From precise digital imaging to computer-guided jaw analysis, we use modern tools to plan interventions that are minimally invasive and predictable. - Patient-centered care
Every plan is tailored to your anatomy, lifestyle, and symptom severity. We engage you in decision-making, so you understand each recommendation and its tradeoffs.
Our TMJ Treatment Options
Occlusal Splints / Night Guards
Custom-made devices designed to stabilize the jaw and protect teeth, reduce grinding forces, and allow muscles to relax.
Bite Adjustment / Equilibration
Minor reshaping of tooth surfaces to balance your bite so the forces are more evenly distributed.
Orthodontics or Prosthodontics
When misaligned or missing teeth contribute to TMJ strain, we may recommend braces, aligners, or prosthetic restorations (crowns, bridges, implants) to re-establish optimal alignment.
Physical Therapy & Jaw Exercises
Gentle stretches, resistance exercises, and soft-tissue techniques help improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and break pain cycles.
Botox / Muscle Relaxant Injections (if appropriate and by referral or credentialed provider)
In select cases, targeted injections into overactive jaw muscles can reduce pain and improve comfort.
Surgery (rarely needed)
Only after conservative treatments fail and in cases with structural joint damage (e.g. severe disc displacement, eroded joint surfaces) would surgical intervention be considered — and always in consultation with a maxillofacial specialist.
What to Expect: Your TMJ Journey with Us
Consultation & Diagnosis
You’ll share your symptoms, medical history, and any prior treatments. We’ll conduct a clinical exam, joint motion testing, muscle palpation, and obtain imaging as needed.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on findings, we’ll propose a tailored plan, explain each option’s pros and cons, and arrive at a collaborative decision.
Implementation & Monitoring
We’ll initiate your therapy (e.g. splint, adjustments) and monitor progress at follow-up visits. We may adjust the plan as needed based on your response.
Long-Term Maintenance
Once symptoms improve, we transition into a maintenance phase: periodic reviews, guard wear, muscle check-ins, and possibly adjustments to your bite plan to maintain function and comfort over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will a TMJ splint cure my pain permanently?
The splint is often a first-line tool to relieve symptoms, not always a permanent “cure.” We use it to stabilize, diagnose, and aid healing. Long-term success depends on addressing underlying causes.
Is surgery common?
No. Most patients respond to conservative therapies. Surgery is considered only in complex, refractory cases.
How long until I feel better?
Many patients notice relief in a few weeks; others may require multiple months of therapy. It depends on severity, compliance, and underlying conditions.
Can missing teeth or bite misalignment cause TMJ pain?
Yes. Imbalances in bite forces or missing structural support can strain the joint and associated muscles.
Do you work with other specialists?
Absolutely. We collaborate with physical therapists, pain management doctors, ENT specialists, and maxillofacial surgeons when multidisciplinary input is beneficial.
Why Address TMJ Early?
Ignoring jaw pain or dysfunction can lead to worsened degeneration, chronic pain cycles, altered chewing patterns, and further dental damage. Early intervention tends to be more successful and less invasive.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, locking, or facial discomfort, don’t wait. Contact Revitalize Implant Center to schedule a TMJ consultation. We’ll guide you toward a path of relief, improved function, and long-term oral health.
