TMJ Is More Than a Little Jaw Pain
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull, and it lets you do some pretty important stuff like talking, chewing, yawning, and smiling. When there’s a malfunction in the joint itself or the muscles around it, the result is known as TMJ disorder (or TMD).
This condition often develops slowly and quietly, and can be surprisingly disruptive to your routine.
Signs of TMJ or TMD
If you’ve noticed any of the following, your jaw may be out of balance:
- Popping or clicking when you open or close your mouth
- Persistent tension in the jaw, neck, or shoulders
- Soreness or stiffness after waking up
- Headaches that start near the temples or behind the eyes
- A bite that feels off or uneven
- Teeth showing unusual wear or flattening
TMJ dysfunction often affects more than just the jaw. It can put the muscles, posture, and joints throughout your head into compensation mode, causing broader discomfort that you may not realize is connected to your jaw.
Causes & Contributing Factors
Several conditions can contribute to the development of TMJ, including:
- Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) can be a cause and a symptom of TMD.
- Women in their childbearing years make up 90% of TMD sufferers.
- Misaligned teeth and bite can contribute, as can physical injury to the joint itself.
Accurate Diagnosis with Advanced Tools
Understanding the root cause of TMJ dysfunction is key to lasting relief. That’s why our process starts with smart diagnostics, not guesswork.
Kois Deprogrammer™: Reveal Your Jaw’s True Resting Position
One of the most effective tools we use is the Kois Deprogrammer™, a small, removable device worn over your front teeth for several nights. This appliance helps relax the jaw muscles by removing the influence of your current bite, allowing us to see how your jaw naturally wants to rest. The results?
- Clearer evaluation of bite-related issues
- Insight into whether the problem is muscular or joint-related
- More accurate, customized treatment plans
Personalized TMJ Treatment Plans in Park Slope
Every jaw is different, so no two treatment plans look the same. At Park Slope Dental Arts, we tailor your care based on what’s actually going on, not just what hurts.
Custom Night Guards for Jaw Relief
If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a custom-fit nightguard. These are nothing like the bulky boil-and-bite guards from the drugstore. We use 3D tools like iTero® digital scanning to design sleek, precise, and comfortable nightguards to support your bite and help protect your teeth.
The benefits of nightguards include:
- Reduced pressure on the jaw joint
- Protection from enamel wear and cracks
- Fewer tension headaches and less morning soreness
Additional Treatment Options
Some patients may benefit from further bite balancing through restorative dentistry or orthodontic treatment. If we identify bite issues contributing to your TMJ symptoms, we’ll walk through the next steps and explain what’s involved.
Why Choose Park Slope Dental Arts for TMJ Treatment?
Our patients choose us because we go beyond treating symptoms to address the root of the issue, so you can get meaningful relief.
- Comprehensive evaluations with digital bite analysis and imaging
- Board-certified specialists with years of experience treating TMJ
- Modern tools like the Kois Deprogrammer™
- Clear, collaborative communication at every step
We’re also conveniently located in the heart of Park Slope, Brooklyn, with flexible appointment times that fit real life.
Affordable, Flexible TMJ Care in Brooklyn
TMJ discomfort can be disruptive, but care should never be out of reach. To help make TMJ treatment in Brooklyn more affordable, we offer:
- Acceptance of most PPO insurance plans
- Third-party financing and monthly payment plans
- Upfront pricing with no surprises
We’ll help you understand your options so you can make the best choice for your health and your wallet.
Stop Planning Your Life Around TMJ
When your bite is in balance, some of the best parts of your life can become easier—eating, talking, sleeping, and smiling! If you’re tired of jaw tension, unexplained headaches, or worn teeth, let’s figure out what’s going on and make a plan that works for you. Schedule a TMJ consultation at Park Slope Dental Arts in Brooklyn and take the first step toward comfort, function, and a more relaxed you.
Disclaimer: The content of this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Financing subject to approval; terms and conditions apply.