TMJ Treatment - West Orange, NJ

Fight Chronic Pain and Improve Function

Are you suffering from chronic headaches, neck pain, jaw pain, or pain in other places throughout your body? Are you unsure of the cause? Issues with your  jaw joints (TMJs) often cause these types of problems. Many people are unaware of the connection between TMJ disorder and migraines, but we help explore this possibility and find options for relief with TMJ treatment in West Orange, NJ.

Why Choose D&G Dental of West Orange for TMJ Treatment?

  • Can Stop Persistent Jaw Pain & Headaches
  • Custom-Made Oral Appliances Available
  • Everything From Diagnosis to Treatment Done In-House

What Causes TMJ Pain? 

Woman holding her jaw in pain needing T M J treatment

Some people experience TMJ disorder symptoms for a short period of time if undergoing immense stress or anxiety. However, others develop a chronic condition. For these people, TMJ treatment will be essential for overcoming the pain and functional problems they’ll experience. Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

  • Clicking or popping of the jaw
  • Chronic headaches, jaw pain, facial pain, and neck pain
  • Ear pain or congestion
  • Limited opening of the mouth
  • Locking of the jaw

TMJ Treatment Options

Person holding a skull and pointing to the jaw joint

The problems listed above can be caused or exacerbated by nighttime teeth grinding and clenching. In order to reduce this pressure, our doctors fit you for a nightguard. This custom-made oral appliance prevents damage to teeth as well, which can wear down, break, or even come loose because of bruxism.

A custom nightguard protects teeth from damage and reduces pressure, but successful TMJ treatment may also involve stress reduction techniques like exercise, talk therapy, meditation, and stretching. Our team can make recommendations that fit your unique needs and preferences.

If you’re exhibiting any of the symptoms of TMJ disorder and are curious as to whether or not you’re suffering from the condition, make an appointment at our West Orange dental office. We will explore solutions with you to find a way to alleviate chronic pain and get you back to feeling your best. D&G Dental of West Orange serves West Orange, Verona, Roseland, Cedar Grove, and surrounding New Jersey communities, offering convenient office hours for busy families and advanced dental care treatments for every age and level of need. Contact us for an appointment.

TMJ Treatment FAQs

black question mark

What is the source of TMJ-related pain?

If you move your mouth side to side or up and down and place your fingers right in front of your ears, you’ll feel two small hinges…that is your TMJ (temporomandibular joint). An imbalance in the bite caused by the teeth can prevent the muscles that control the TMJ from ever fully relaxing, leading to strain, tension, and soreness that can radiate throughout the face, head, and neck. Injuries to the joint, arthritis, and nighttime teeth grinding can cause the symptoms listed above as well.

Will TMJ pain eventually go away on its own?

In the vast majority of cases, a TMJ problem will not resolve itself, but rather it will become worse over time as the joint continually breaks down. A misaligned bite cannot be fixed without professional intervention, nor can someone just decide not to grind their teeth while they sleep. The best approach is to visit a dentist as soon as you suspect something is wrong because they can address the structural issues that are at the root of the problem.

How long will it take to treat my TMJ problem?

This will be different for each patient depending on their situation. For some, they just need to wear a nightguard to bed, and they are completely pain-free the next day. In other instances, it might take a few appointments for our team to find the right orientation of your teeth and bite to take pressure off of your TMJ. The body might also require a few weeks or months to adjust to the jaw’s new position before it feels normal and comfortable. No matter how long it takes, our team will be by your side the entire time to ensure you have a smooth experience.

Is TMJ treatment covered by dental insurance?

Yes, most TMJ treatments can be partially covered by dental insurance, as this includes common procedures like crowns and bonding (to reshape the teeth and change the bite) and providing custom nightguards. As to how much your plan will cover, that can only be determined after we verify your benefits. We want you to be able to afford the treatment you need and not be caught off guard by the cost, so we will discuss all of the financial details when you come in to see us for the first time, ensuring you know what to expect right from the beginning.