TMJ Treatment in Odenton, MD

TMJ disorders can make everyday activities—like chewing, talking, or even yawning—uncomfortable. If you’ve been dealing with jaw pain, stiffness, or frequent headaches, you’re not alone. True Dental provides gentle, effective solutions to help relieve TMJ symptoms and protect your long-term jaw health. By identifying the root cause of your discomfort, we can create a personalized treatment plan that helps you feel better and restores natural, comfortable jaw function.

What causes TMJ?

TMJ disorders can develop for several reasons, and many patients experience symptoms from a combination of factors. Common causes include teeth grinding, jaw clenching, arthritis, stress, injury to the jaw, or a misaligned bite. These issues place extra strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort and inflammation. If you notice frequent jaw pain or stiffness, it’s a good idea to have your bite and jaw function evaluated.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

TMJ symptoms can vary, but most patients notice pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, tightness in the surrounding muscles, or popping and clicking sounds when opening or closing their mouth. Some people also experience headaches, earaches, facial soreness, or difficulty chewing. Symptoms may come and go or gradually worsen over time. If these signs are affecting daily comfort, we recommend scheduling an exam with our team so we can pinpoint the cause.

Does TMJ go away on its own?

In some cases, mild TMJ symptoms may improve with rest, stress reduction, or avoiding hard or chewy foods. However, ongoing pain or recurring flare-ups often need professional attention to prevent the issue from worsening. Because TMJ can stem from bite problems or grinding habits, it’s important to identify what’s contributing to the discomfort. Early evaluation helps protect your jaw joint and ensures you receive the right type of care.

How is TMJ treated by a dentist?

We offer several effective options to help relieve TMJ discomfort. A custom nightguard is one of the most common treatments, as it reduces stress on the jaw by preventing teeth grinding and clenching while you sleep. For patients with muscle tension or inflammation, Botox can also be used to relax overactive jaw muscles and ease pain. During your exam, we’ll recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and goals.

Contact Us