The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull and plays a crucial role in daily functions such as speaking, chewing and yawning. When this joint becomes stressed, misaligned or damaged, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which may cause significant discomfort and interfere with your quality of life.

Recognizing the Symptoms of TMD

TMJ disorders can present a variety of symptoms that may affect more than just the jaw. You may be experiencing TMD if you notice:

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face or neck
  • Clicking, popping or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or discomfort when biting
  • A locked or stiff jaw that makes it difficult to open or close your mouth
  • Frequent headaches or ear pain that does not stem from an ear infection

TMD can develop from factors such as stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis or injury to the jaw. Identifying the underlying cause is essential to finding the most effective treatment.

Personalized TMJ Treatment Options

Every case of TMD is unique, so treatment is tailored to address the severity of your symptoms and the root cause of your discomfort. Our experienced dentists may recommend:

  • Oral appliances – A custom night guard or splint can help reposition the jaw and prevent teeth grinding.
  • Lifestyle adjustments – Stress management, jaw relaxation exercises and dietary changes can reduce strain on the TMJ.
  • Restorative dentistry – Misaligned or damaged teeth can contribute to TMJ issues and treatments such as dental crowns or orthodontics may help.
  • Medications and therapy – Anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy may be recommended to alleviate pain and improve jaw function.
  • Advanced interventions – In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to correct structural issues within the joint.

Find Relief From TMJ Discomfort

If you are experiencing persistent jaw pain or other symptoms of TMD, seeking professional care can help you find lasting relief. Dr. Michael Homayun, Dr. Sara Taj and Dr. Jamil Marwan are committed to providing comprehensive treatment options to restore comfort and function. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at Comfort Dental Center, learn more about TMJ treatments in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, Reseda, Santa Monica and Valencia, California, and take the first step toward improving your oral health.