End Jaw Pain and Headaches with TMJ Pain Treatment

TMJ disorder (TMD) causes relentless headaches and jaw pain that affect your sleep, eating, and concentration. No one deserves to live in pain. So, if you are losing the battle to TMJ dysfunction, schedule an appointment with KB Family Dentistry. Dr. Katie Burggraaf offers bite splint therapy and other TMD treatments to patients in and around Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, Caledonia, and Ada, Michigan. Contact us today and take the first step towards relief!

What is TMJ pain?

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joints, which are hinge-like joints located on either side of the face. You may not realize it, but your TMJs move multiple times to help you speak, chew, smile, yawn, etc. 

Unfortunately, like other body joints, your TMJs can be strained, injured, or inflamed. These factors cause the TMJs to malfunction, resulting in TMJ disorder (TMD). 

Common signs of TMJ disorder include: 

  • Jaw pain, soreness, or tightness
  • Chronic headaches
  • Popping or clicking sounds in your jaws
  • Locked jaws
  • Painful chewing

The exact cause of TMJ pain is unknown, but the triggers are well-documented. Injuries, bite misalignment, arthritis, and emotional stress are some reasons you may have TMJ pain. Whatever the cause, seek treatment from your Grand Rapids TMJ dentist because the condition rarely resolves itself without treatment. 

What does treatment for TMJ pain involve?

Treating TMJ pain at KB Family Dentistry starts with diagnosis. The dentist will analyze your symptoms and physically inspect your jaw joints for limited mobility or weird noises. Advanced imaging technology may be necessary to unearth jaw joints and surrounding musculature structural deformities. 

Treatment for TMJ pain involves bite splint therapy, which relieves pain by: 

  • Realigning the jaws: A bite splint provides a smooth, even surface that helps the jaw muscles relax. When your bite is misaligned, your muscles overwork to find a balanced position. A bite splint guides your jaw into a more neutral and relaxed position, reducing tension in the surrounding muscles.
  • Managing bruxism: Many people with TMJ issues grind or clench their teeth at night—often without realizing it. This habit can worsen jaw pain and damage teeth. A bite splint creates a protective barrier that cushions teeth, reducing the harmful effects of grinding and allowing the jaw muscles to rest.

A well-designed splint relieves current symptoms and can prevent the condition from progressing. A bite splint reduces strain on the jaw joint and teeth, protecting oral structures from further wear and tear.

Does orthodontics treat TMJ pain?

When your teeth don’t come together properly (occlude), it can force your jaw into an unnatural position, straining the TMJs. Orthodontic treatment with CandidPro clear aligners helps align your bite so the jaw can open and close more naturally.

There is never a one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ pain. After a thorough examination, Dr. Burggraaf will determine the best treatment option for your jaw pain. Whether you require orthodontic care, bite splint therapy, or other treatments, we will provide the relief you need.

Ready to meet your Grand Rapids TMJ dentist?

TMJ pain can affect your everyday life, from eating and sleeping to concentrating. Dr. Burggraaf can diagnose and treat TMJ pain effectively to help people have a pain-free lifestyle. Don’t let TMJ dysfunction control your life any longer. Call (616) 219-2659 to book your visit!