TMJ & Jaw Pain

Our Services

What are TMJ disorders?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on both sides of your face, where your lower jaw connects to your skull. These joints allow your mouth to open, close, and move side to side—making everyday actions like speaking, chewing, and yawning possible.

TMJ disorders occur when something disrupts the normal function of these joints. Common causes fall into three main categories:

Myofascial pain affecting the muscles that control jaw movement
Internal joint issues, such as injury or a displaced disc
Arthritic conditions that lead to inflammation or joint degeneration

Some people experience just one of these issues, while others may have a combination of two or all three.

What causes TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorders can develop from a variety of issues that affect the jaw joints or surrounding muscles. Common causes include:

Arthritis
Degenerative disc disease
Jaw misalignment
Acute trauma or injury
Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus can also contribute to TMJ problems by affecting the connective tissues around the joint.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?

The most frequent symptom of a TMJ disorder is pain in the jaw, but discomfort can also radiate to your temples, cheeks, neck, back, or even your teeth. Other symptoms may include:

Clicking or popping in the jaw
Jaw stiffness or soreness
Muscle spasms in the face or neck
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Frequent headaches or earaches
Dizziness or balance issues
Jaw locking, making it difficult to open or close your mouth

How are TMJ disorders treated?

Dr. Christian will perform a detailed oral exam to rule out other conditions and confirm a TMJ diagnosis. Based on your specific symptoms and needs, she’ll create a customized treatment plan, which may include:

Self-Care: A soft diet, jaw relaxation exercises, and avoiding extreme jaw movements (like yawning or yelling) can help reduce strain. Moist heat may also be recommended to ease muscle tightness.
Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications often provide relief. For more severe cases, muscle relaxants or corticosteroids may be prescribed.
TMJ Appliances: Custom-fitted appliances like night guards or stabilization splints can reduce pressure on the jaw, prevent teeth grinding, and support proper alignment during sleep.
Botox Injections: Therapeutic Botox can be used to relax overactive jaw muscles, reduce clenching, and ease tension-related pain in patients with chronic TMJ issues.
PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): This regenerative treatment uses your body’s own healing factors to reduce inflammation, improve tissue health around the joint, and accelerate recovery.
Fotona 4D Laser Therapy: This non-invasive laser technology promotes collagen production, improves circulation, and provides targeted relief for TMJ discomfort—all while enhancing overall facial balance and function.

If you're experiencing jaw pain or other TMJ symptoms, contact The Sleep & TMJ Group today to schedule a consultation.

Contact Us

Send us a Message

Have a question? We're here to help! Send us a message and one of our team members will contact you as soon as possible.