TMJ Treatment in Torrance, CA

TMJ Treatment

At Jenuine Smiles Orthodontics in Torrance, we strive to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles through convenient orthodontic treatment. We’re proud to use braces, Invisalign, and other cutting-edge orthodontic treatments to help patients achieve a beautiful new smile, but orthodontic treatment goes beyond aesthetics. In addition to helping perfect your smile, we can also use orthodontics to treat the pain and discomfort of TMJ.

 

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the jaw joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. While the acronym TMJ technically only stands for the full name of the jaw joint, TMJ is often used interchangeably with TMD: temporomandibular joint disorder. TMD is a broad term that refers to a variety of jaw problems, and symptoms can range from acute pain in the jaw to severe headaches, neck pain, and other problems.

Symptoms of TMD

TMD is one of the most common oral health problems for adults, with roughly 7 million people currently experiencing TMD and 30% of people experiencing it at some point in life. TMD can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth
  • Inability to fully open the mouth
  • Jaw pain
  • Facial pain
  • Constant or recurring headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Pain or tenderness in the ear or neck when opening the mouth wide

TMD symptoms can vary greatly, and many of these symptoms could also be caused by other conditions. If you experience symptoms like these, you should schedule an appointment with your Torrance orthodontist for a more thorough diagnosis.

What Causes TMJ Pain?

Causes of TMD can be murky, and we still don't fully understand all causes. That said, there are a variety of conditions and factors that are linked to TMJ, including:

  • Bruxism (chronic teeth grinding, usually at night)
  • Genetics
  • Injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Hormones
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Orthodontic problems

TMD Treatment

We provide comprehensive TMD treatment related to bite issues. Dr. Jen will perform a TMJ screening as a part of a comprehensive orthodontic examination. With symptoms, additional imaging and evaluation may be recommended. Follow-up referrals to a physical therapist that specializes in Jaw joint therapy or additional imaging such as MRI. Some TMD can often be simple over the counter pain management and protection from habits or bite correction that may be contributing. The treatment can also be quite complex requiring multiple specialists such as a physical therapist, restorative dentist and surgeons.

For simpler, milder cases of TMD, we'll often recommend simply managing the pain with over-the-counter painkillers and cold compresses. For more severe cases, we may recommend using a night guard to protect from grinding or using orthodontic treatment to reposition the teeth for a healthier bite. In the most serious cases, we may recommend jaw surgery to alleviate pain.

Schedule a Consultation!

TMJ is a common issue for adults, and Dr. Jen is here to help you overcome it. Take the first step to jaw pain relief and a healthier smile.

If you have questions, please contact our office at hello@jenuinesmiles.com or 310-543-2711.

 

TMJ Treatment FAQs

Can orthodontic treatment help with TMJ pain?


It can when your bite is part of the problem. Teeth that don’t meet evenly can put extra strain on the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. Braces or Invisalign® can move your teeth into a healthier bite and take some of that pressure off. TMJ pain has many possible causes, so Dr. Jen first checks whether your bite is involved before she recommends orthodontic treatment.

Is jaw clicking or popping always a sign of a TMJ problem?


Not always. Many people hear an occasional click when they open their mouth and never feel any pain. Clicking becomes more concerning when it comes with jaw pain, headaches, or trouble opening your mouth fully. If your jaw sounds have changed or started to hurt, it’s worth having Dr. Jen take a look.

What happens during a TMJ screening?


Dr. Jen screens the jaw joint as part of a full orthodontic exam at our Torrance office. She looks at how your teeth come together, how your jaw opens and closes, and whether you have any of the symptoms listed above. If something needs a closer look, she may recommend more imaging, such as an MRI, or a referral to a physical therapist who specializes in jaw joint therapy.

Will a night guard help my TMJ symptoms?


A night guard can help if you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep. It sits between your upper and lower teeth, protecting them from wear and easing some of the strain grinding puts on your jaw. A night guard won’t change how your teeth fit together. If your bite is adding to the pain, Dr. Jen may also discuss orthodontic treatment with you.

Will I need jaw surgery to treat TMJ?


Usually not. Milder cases are often managed with nonprescription pain relievers, cold compresses, and protection from habits like grinding. Jaw surgery is saved for the most serious cases. When TMJ is more complex, Dr. Jen works with other specialists, such as physical therapists, restorative dentists, and surgeons, to plan your care.