TMJ Therapy

If you’re experiencing chronic jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or persistent headaches, a TMJ disorder may be the root cause. At Chino Hills Oral Surgery, our experienced surgeons are here to help diagnose and treat TMJ disorders so you can get back to living and eating comfortably.

Overview

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder (TMD) affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is compromised, it can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing or speaking.

TMJ disorders can result from a variety of factors, including:

Jaw injuries or trauma
Teeth grinding (bruxism), often linked to stress
Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
Arthritis or joint conditions
In some cases, genetics can increase your likelihood of developing TMD

The case for TMJ Therapy

If left untreated, TMJ disorders can cause long-term damage to the jaw joint and lead to chronic pain, headaches, and more serious issues like jaw misalignment. Seeking treatment early is key to preventing these complications and improving your quality of life. At Chino Hills Oral Surgery, we offer comprehensive care that may include custom splints, physical therapy, medications, and advanced options like injections or surgical procedures, depending on your individual needs.

When to consider TMJ Therapy

You may need treatment if you experience:

Persistent jaw pain or soreness
Frequent headaches or migraines, especially those linked to jaw tension
Clicking or popping sounds when chewing or opening your mouth
Difficulty moving the jaw or locking
Teeth grinding (often while sleeping)
Neck, shoulder, or ear pain

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our team. We can determine the best course of treatment to relieve your pain and prevent further damage to your jaw.

Comprehensive TMJ disorder evaluations

Diagnosing TMJ disorders

Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons have advanced training and experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. We offer compassionate care, the latest technology, and a commitment to helping you find relief—whether that means a custom nightguard or surgical intervention.

During your consultation, your oral surgeon will:

Review your medical and dental history
Perform a physical exam of your jaw and facial muscles
Possibly order imaging like X-rays, CT scans, or an MRI for a detailed look at your joint structure

This comprehensive evaluation helps us pinpoint the issue and design a treatment plan that’s right for you.

TMJ Therapy options at Chino Hills Oral Surgery

At Chino Hills Oral Surgery, we offer several treatments to relieve the symptoms of TMJ disorder, including:

Custom splints or nightguards to reduce teeth grinding and relieve pressure on the joint
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve jaw movement
Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants
Stress management techniques to reduce jaw clenching
Injections for pain relief and inflammation reduction
In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or reposition the jaw

Our team will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Experiencing jaw pain or other TMJ symptoms?
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.

Experiencing jaw pain or other TMJ symptoms? Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.

Your questions, answered.

Chino Hills Oral Surgery is here to address all your questions and concerns regarding TMJ Therapy.

What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint itself, while TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to any condition that causes pain or dysfunction in that joint or the surrounding muscles. People often use “TMJ” to describe the disorder, but technically “TMD” is the correct term.

How long does TMJ disorder treatment take to
show results?

Treatment timelines vary depending on the severity of your condition. Most patients begin to experience relief within a few weeks to months, especially with splints or physical therapy. If surgery is required, recovery may take longer, but we will provide clear guidance and support throughout the process.

Is TMJ disorder treatment painful?

Our treatments are designed to be as comfortable as possible. While adjusting to a nightguard or beginning physical therapy may cause some temporary discomfort, these treatments are generally well-tolerated. If surgical treatment is necessary, we provide pain management options to ensure a smooth recovery.

Can TMJ disorder go away on its own, or does it
require treatment?

Mild TMJ symptoms may improve with self-care or rest. However, for more persistent or severe cases, professional treatment is typically necessary to prevent the condition from worsening. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic pain and further damage to the jaw joint.

Can TMJ disorders cause headaches or ear pain?

Yes. TMJ disorders can lead to tension headaches, migraines, earaches, and a feeling of fullness in the ears due to the joint’s close connection to facial and cranial nerves and muscles.

Does insurance cover TMJ disorder treatment?

Insurance coverage varies depending on your plan. Many dental insurance policies cover nightguards or splints, while medical insurance may cover treatments like physical therapy or injections. We recommend discussing your treatment options with our office so we can help you understand your insurance benefits and provide payment options if necessary.