Conditions We Treat
Jaw Pain & TMJ Disorders
Jaw pain can affect far more than your ability to chew. It can contribute to headaches, facial tension, worn teeth, poor sleep, and discomfort that follows you throughout the day. At Advanced Dentistry and Aesthetics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing TMJ disorders by evaluating how your teeth, jaw joints, muscles, and airway work together. Our goal is to relieve pain while restoring healthy, long-term function.
Understanding TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) allow your jaw to open, close, and move comfortably. When these joints or the surrounding muscles become strained, everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even sleeping can become uncomfortable. TMJ disorders may be associated with:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Facial muscle fatigue
- Difficulty chewing comfortably
- Ear pain or a feeling of pressure
- Neck and shoulder tension
Many of these symptoms develop gradually, making early evaluation important before additional wear or joint damage occurs.
A Comprehensive TMJ Evaluation
No two cases are exactly alike, which is why Dr. Peterson begins with a thorough examination to understand what's contributing to your symptoms. Your evaluation may include:
- Bite analysis and jaw alignment
- Assessment of jaw movement and TMJ function
- Muscle evaluation and trigger point assessment
- Airway evaluation and sleep-related screening
- CBCT 3-D Radiographs
- Digital imaging
- Review of previous dental treatment and medical history
If your condition involves sleep-disordered breathing or other medical concerns, we work closely with sleep physicians, ENTs, myofunctional therapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.
Personalized Treatment Options
Because TMJ disorders can have many contributing factors, treatment is always customized to your diagnosis and goals. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include:
- Custom bite appliances and occlusal splints
- Mandibular Advancement therapy to improve jaw position and airway function
- Bite adjustments to reduce uneven pressure on the jaw joints
- Botox® therapy to relax chronically overworked jaw muscles
- NightLase® laser therapy when airway collapse contributes to muscle fatigue and poor sleep
- Restorative dentistry to rebuild worn or unstable bites
- Orthodontic alignment with or without jaw expansion
- Dry Needling and LASER treatments
Our focus is always on choosing the most conservative, effective treatment that provides lasting relief.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your first visit is designed to help you understand exactly what's happening and what can be done to improve it. We'll discuss your symptoms, perform a comprehensive examination, review any imaging, and explain your treatment options in clear, straightforward language. Many patients begin experiencing relief within a few weeks of starting treatment, while more complex bite rehabilitation may require additional time. Throughout your care, we'll monitor your progress and make adjustments to keep you moving toward long-term success.
Restoring Function for Long-Term Relief
Our philosophy goes beyond simply treating pain. By improving the relationship between your bite, muscles, jaw joints, and airway, we can often reduce recurring symptoms while protecting your teeth and supporting better overall health. Whether your discomfort stems from grinding, bite imbalance, airway concerns, or TMJ dysfunction, our goal is to help you enjoy lasting comfort, healthier function, and a better quality of life.
Ready to Get Relief?
If jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or TMJ symptoms are interfering with your daily life, schedule a consultation with Advanced Dentistry and Aesthetics. Dr. Peterson will perform a comprehensive evaluation, identify the source of your discomfort, and create a personalized treatment plan designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence.