A Healthy, Pain-free Lifestyle is Possible with TMJ Pain Treatment
Constant jaw pain and headaches can affect concentration, comfort, and sleep. If the cause is TMJ pain, Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions can help you feel like yourself again. Our doctors provide simple yet effective TMJ disorder treatment using customized oral appliances and other non-surgical solutions to patients in Manhattan, California, and nearby locations. Contact us today, and take the first step toward a healthy, pain-free lifestyle.
Do I have TMJ pain?
The most common symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is pain that affects the jaw, causing tenderness or soreness. However, you can also develop pain in your temples, cheeks, neck, shoulders, and upper back.
You can also experience:
- Clicking and popping jaws
- Recurrent headaches
- Earaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Sore jaw muscles
In severe cases, your jaw may lock, making it almost impossible to open and close your mouth. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t suffer alone. Visit your Manhattan TMJ dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
What causes TMJ pain?
More than 30 million Americans struggle with TMJ pain/TMD. For some, it’s a minor issue—but for others, it leads to severe pain and restricted jaw movement. Habits that overwork your jaw—like frequent clenching, nail biting, or nighttime grinding—can increase your risk of developing TMJ disorders.
Other common causes of TMJ pain include:
- Anxiety or stress
- Sleep disordered breathing problems like sleep apnea
- Jaw trauma
- Inflammation-related conditions like arthritis
How does the dentist diagnose TMJ pain?
Diagnosing TMJ disorders can be challenging because the symptoms often mimic other common conditions—like ear infections, migraines, sinus issues, or even dental problems. Patients may report headaches and jaw pain, making it difficult to pinpoint the true source without a thorough evaluation.
We begin by discussing your symptoms, health history, lifestyle habits, and any known triggers like stress or teeth grinding. We assess jaw movement, joint sounds (like clicks or pops), and muscle tenderness. We’ll also examine your bite and check for any signs of clenching or grinding.
Sometimes, we recommend digital X-rays, CBCT scans, or MRIs to view the jaw joints and surrounding structures. These help us identify misalignment, joint damage, or inflammation that may not be visible in a basic exam.
Schedule a consultation with Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions to find out if you’re a good candidate for Same Day Veneers
310-340-6663How is TMJ disorder treated?
You’ll be pleased to discover that treating TMJ pain in Manhattan, California, rarely involves surgery. Our first line of treatment is a customized nightguard that creates a barrier between upper and lower teeth. A nightguard protects your teeth from undue damage and joint instability during sleep.
A TMJ mouthguard alleviates undesirable symptoms and restores quality of life. However, it doesn’t address the root cause of your problem. Your dentist will walk with you to identify the underlying cause and recommend additional treatments, such as:
- Orthodontics to correct misaligned teeth and jaws
- Jaw rehabilitation exercises
- Anti-inflammatory and/or muscle relaxant medications
TMJ disorders have different causes, so there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. We create a treatment plan tailored to each individual. Some people may find relief through conservative therapies like oral appliances. Others may need a combination of approaches or collaboration with other healthcare providers.
Is it time to meet your Manhattan TMJ Dentist?
If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, we understand what you are going through. Don’t suffer in silence. Instead, call 310-340-6663 or email info@manhattanbeachdentalsolutions.com to reserve a consultation with our team.
Dr. Don Mungcal
Connect on LinkedInDr. Don Mungcal is a reputable Los Angeles dentist with over three decades of experience. A graduate of UCLA, he went on to receive his dental degree with honors at the University of the Pacific Dental School and served as an instructor at USC Dental School. Having an unwavering commitment to patient care, Dr. Mungcal has been recognized as a Best Dentist in Downtown by the “Los Angeles Downtown News” for four consecutive years. Dr. Mungcal is a recognized member of the California Dental Society and other prestigious organizations and continues to expand his expertise through intensive continuing education.
Dr. Jasmin Takemoto
Dr. Jasmin Takemoto, DDS, is a dedicated dentist with over a decade of experience, offering a blend of technical excellence and compassionate care. Born and raised in the South Bay Area, she earned her undergraduate degree in Biology and Philosophy from Loyola Marymount University, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the prestigious University of the Pacific. Dr. Takemoto is committed to lifelong learning, continually updating her skills to provide the highest level of dental care. Her thoughtful, individualized approach ensures trust and satisfaction for each patient she serves.
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