TMJ Treatment

Do you have discomfort or popping in your jaw? Jaw pain is a common problem, but consistent jaw pain shouldn’t be ignored. This pain makes it difficult to do daily tasks and can negatively impact your health and happiness.

Luckily, effective treatment options exist for jaw pain. Dr. Thomas J. DeStefano provides TMJ treatment in Pittsford, New York.

Using physiological dentistry, our dentist and team can realign your bite and help you find relief. Schedule a consultation at DeStefano Dentistry by calling to learn more about this service and see how we can help you.

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What Is TMJ Therapy?

TMJ therapy, also known as temporomandibular joint treatment, is focused on correcting a misaligned jaw. TMJ is the acronym for the temporomandibular joint. TMJ pain can be caused by many underlying factors.

TMD stands for temporomandibular disorders, which is a group of conditions that cause jaw pain and other jaw issues. Usually, TMJ pain happens when the joint that connects to the lower jaw becomes injured or shifts out of place, causing discomfort and misalignment. This most often happens due to teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, and head, neck, or jaw injury.

Common symptoms of TMJ are:

Headaches
Discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and ears
Trouble chewing and talking
Locked jaw
Difficulty opening the mouth wide
Popping or clicking sounds in the jaw

Our dentist may suggest different treatment options, depending on the severity of your TMJ disorder. These options can include muscle exercises, dietary changes, a mouth or night guard, and, in more intensive cases, jaw surgery.

After determining the extent of the treatment needed, our dentist will create a treatment plan with you to help you find the relief you need.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMJ issues are often the result of multiple overlapping factors. Some of the most common causes include:

Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism): Constant clenching or grinding puts strain on the jaw muscles and joints. Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it.
Bite Misalignment: When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly, the jaw must work harder to function, which can create strain.
Stress and Anxiety: Stress often leads to habits such as clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth, which worsen TMJ symptoms.
Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint and reduce smooth movement.
Trauma or Injury: A blow to the face, whiplash, or other head and neck injuries may damage the joint.
Poor Posture: Forward head posture, common for people who spend long hours on computers or phones, places additional stress on the jaw and neck muscles.
Genetics and Hormonal Factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to joint problems, and research suggests that hormones could influence TMH risk, especially in women.

Common Signs of TMJ Disorder

Not sure if you’re experiencing TMJ issues? Symptoms often appear in ways that patients don’t immediately connect to their jaw.

Headaches and Migraines: Frequent headaches, especially in the temples, are a common sign of TMJ dysfunction.
Jaw Pain or Tenderness: Pain may feel sharp or dull and often worsens when chewing or speaking.
Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds: These noises may occur when opening or closing the mouth.
Ear-Related Symptoms: TMJ disorders can cause earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a sensation of fullness in the ears.
Neck, Shoulder, and Facial Pain: Due to the jaw muscles connecting with surrounding muscle groups, discomfort often radiates beyond the jaw.
Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Patients may feel that their bite is “off” or that their jaw is not moving smoothly.
Locking of the Jaw: In severe cases, the jaw may lock in an open or closed position.
Limited Jaw Movement: Some patients find they cannot open their mouth as wide as before.

The Risks of Ignoring TMJ Pain

Many patients hope their TMJ discomfort will go away on its own, but ignoring persistent symptoms can have long-term consequences.

Chronic Pain: Discomfort can worsen over time and spread to other parts of the body.
Tooth Damage: Clenching and grinding wear down enamel, leading to fractures or sensitivity.
Sleep Disturbances: TMJ pain may disrupt quality and contribute to fatigue.
Worsening Bite Problems: Misalignment can become more pronounced without intervention.
Joint Damage: Severe cases may lead to arthritis or permanent damage to the jaw joint.

Why Choose Physiological Dentistry for TMJ Treatment?

Unlike conventional approaches that only address surface-level symptoms, physiological dentistry focuses on the connection between the teeth, jaw, muscles, and overall body function.

Dr. DeStefano uses advanced diagnostic tools to analyze your bite and jaw movement. By determining the root cause of your discomfort, he can design a treatment plan that not only reduces pain but also promotes long-term stability.

Benefits of physiological dentistry for TMJ treatment include:

Comprehensive Evaluation: Your bite, jaw alignment, and muscle activity are carefully measured.
Long-Term Relief: By correcting imbalances, treatment addresses the cause instead of just the symptoms.
Improved Function: Restoring balance improves chewing efficiency, speech, and discomfort.
Whole-Body Benefits: Correcting jaw position can reduce neck and back tension and improve posture.

Treatment Options for TMJ Pain

At DeStefano Dentistry, we offer several treatments for TMJ pain and TMJ disorders. Every patient is different, and the causes of TMJ issues vary. So, Dr. DeStefano will work with you to figure out the root causes and find treatments that address them.

If you have recently had severe trauma to the head, neck, or shoulders, we recommend also seeing your family physician or checking in to the emergency room before seeking treatment from our dentist. For other types of TMJ pain, we are here to assist you with dental interventions.

Learn more about our TMJ services or call our office to set up a consultation.

Custom-made mouth guards and other dental appliances like oral splints help align your jaw to the right position to deter grinding and clenching. If you grind your teeth, whether at night or in the day, an oral appliance protects your jaw and your teeth.

One specific type of oral appliance we provide is the LVI orthotic device. This option is created to correct your bite and looks similar to a removable mouthguard.

The oral appliances we make in our office are more effective than over-the-counter options because they are tailored for you.

Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve mobility and reduce muscle tension.

Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches increase range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Muscle Strengthening: Strengthening weak muscles helps stabilize the joint.
Relaxation Training: Breathing exercises and posture correction support long-term relief.

Often, physical therapy is combined with oral appliance therapy for enhanced results.

MLS stands for multiwave locked system. This is a specialized laser that uses light wavelengths to address pain and inflammation. MLS laser treatment is non-invasive and used in many areas of medicine and dentistry, including TMJ pain relief.

Pain Relief: The laser reduces nerve sensitivity, offering quick comfort.
Inflammation Reduction: Laser light penetrates tissues to decrease swelling.
Accelerated Healing: Increased circulation supports the body’s natural repair processes.

Patients often appreciate that MLS therapy is painless and requires no downtime.

Various medications can provide relief and are regularly used together with other TMJ treatments. Some medications that can address TMJ issues include muscle relaxers, pain medications, and antidepressants.

Benefits of Seeking TMJ Treatment

Patients who pursue TMJ care often notice improvements in many aspects of their health and daily life.

Improved Sleep: Pain relief allows for deeper, uninterrupted rest.
Reduced Headaches: Many patients experience fewer or less severe headaches.
Better Chewing Function: Eating becomes easier and more comfortable.
Protection of Teeth: Oral appliances prevent damage caused by grinding.

Increased Comfort and Confidence: Relief from jaw pain allows you to focus on work, relationships, and daily activities without constant discomfort.

Why Choose DeStefano Dentistry for TMJ Treatment?

When you are living with jaw pain, you want a dental team that combines experience, compassion, and advanced technology. At DeStefano Dentistry, we take pride in offering more than just treatment; we provide a supportive environment where your comfort and long-term health come first.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Personalized Care

Every TMJ case is unique, and we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. DeStefano carefully evaluates your symptoms and designs a plan tailored to your needs.

Advanced Technology

From digital imaging to MLS laser therapy, our office uses modern tools that improve accuracy and comfort.

Whole-Body Approach

As a provider of physiological dentistry, we look beyond your teeth and focus on how your bite and jaw alignment affect your overall health.

Trusted Experience

Dr. DeStefano has years of experience helping patients find relief from TMJ disorders and complex dental conditions.

Compassionate Team

We know jaw pain can affect every part of your life. Our friendly team takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and support you every step of the way.

Preventing TMJ Flare-Ups at Home

Even after beginning treatment, many patients want to know how they can reduce the risk of future flare-ups. While not every case of TMJ disorder can be fully prevented, certain lifestyle habits can make a big difference in keeping symptoms under control.

Practice Good Posture: Sitting upright with your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine reduces unnecessary pressure on your jaw.
Avoid Overuse of the Jaw: Limit habits like chewing gum, biting on pens, or crunching ice, as these place extra stress on the joint.
Manage Stress Levels: Stress often leads to teeth clenching or grinding. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help ease tension.
Follow a Soft Food Diet During Flare-Ups: Eating softer foods when pain worsens gives the jaw a chance to rest and recover.
Apply Moist Heat or Cold Packs: Alternating warm compresses or cold packs can soothe sore muscles and decrease inflammation.
Stick With Your Oral Appliance: If you have been prescribed a night guard or orthotic device, wearing it consistently is key to protecting your jaw and teeth.

By combining professional treatment with these at-home strategies, you’ll not only find relief but also support long-term jaw health.

Is TMJ Pain Treated with Surgery?

Surgical interventions for TMJ pain do exist. For many patients, non-surgical interventions are adequate to treat the symptoms. However, some patients may need surgery if other treatment options aren’t working.

Dr. DeStefano will make a customized treatment plan for you and adjust the process until he finds what works best for you. If surgery is necessary, he will discuss this with you and help you find an experienced oral surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorders and Treatment

Mild TMJ symptoms sometimes resolve naturally, especially if related to temporary stress. However, chronic or worsening pain often requires professional care.

TMJ disorders are not always permanent. With treatment, many patients achieve lasting relief and improved function.

Yes. Stress is a major contributor, as it increases clenching and grinding behaviors that strain the joint.

Treatment length varies depending on the cause and severity. Some patients feel relief in weeks, while others require ongoing therapy for long-term stability.

If your bite is a contributing factor, treatment may improve its alignment. This can enhance the comfort, function, and even appearance of your smile.

Ignoring TMJ can lead to worsening pain, tooth damage, headaches, and permanent joint issues. Early intervention is best.

Call for TMJ Relief!

TMJ pain can be difficult to ignore and make it hard to sleep and enjoy daily activities. The friendly staff at DeStefano Dentistry wants you to have a positive experience with our office, and Dr. DeStefano will provide compassionate treatment to address your TMJ pain.

For more information about our treatments for TMJ disorder, contact our dental office and schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable dentist today.