TMJ Treatment
Jaw pain, clicking, locking, or chronic headaches? TMJ disorder is common — and most cases respond beautifully to conservative treatment.
Calm down the joint, calm down the pain.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge in front of each ear that lets your jaw move. When something throws it out of balance — grinding, clenching, an uneven bite, stress, arthritis — the muscles around it spasm, the joint inflames, and the symptoms can spread well beyond the jaw itself: headaches, neck pain, earaches, jaw popping, even shoulder tension.
The good news is that most TMJ disorders are reversible without surgery. A combination of a custom occlusal splint, targeted muscle therapy, posture and habit changes, and sometimes a bite adjustment resolves the majority of cases.
We diagnose carefully, treat conservatively, and only refer for advanced imaging or specialist intervention when truly necessary.
Our staged TMJ plan
Diagnostic exam
We check jaw range of motion, click points, muscle tenderness, bite alignment and wear patterns. Imaging only when needed.
Custom splint
A precisely-fitted occlusal splint worn at night unloads the joint and relaxes the muscles. Most patients see meaningful relief within 2–4 weeks.
Muscle therapy & habits
We coach you on jaw stretches, posture cues, stress techniques, and habits to avoid (gum, ice, nail-biting) that aggravate the joint.
Re-assess & refine
After 6–8 weeks, we reassess. If symptoms persist, we may add bite refinement, physiotherapy referral, or specialist consultation.
The Lac La Biche Smiles difference.
Conservative-first approach — surgery is rarely needed
Custom splints made from precision digital scans
Coordinated care with physio or massage therapy when helpful
Most patients see clear improvement within 4–8 weeks
Your questions, answered.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
Mild flare-ups often do, especially if you can identify the trigger (stress, gum chewing, grinding). Persistent symptoms typically don't resolve without intervention.
Will I need surgery?
Almost certainly not. Conservative care — splint therapy, muscle relaxation, habit changes — resolves the vast majority of cases.
Is the splint the same as a nightguard?
They look similar but are calibrated differently. A TMJ splint is designed to position the jaw in a specific therapeutic relationship; a basic nightguard just prevents grinding.
How long until I feel better?
Most patients notice meaningful change in 2–4 weeks of consistent splint wear. Full resolution can take 2–3 months as muscles fully decompress.
Ready to book your visit?
Same-day appointments, direct insurance billing, and a friendly team that puts you at ease. We can't wait to meet you.