TMJ Treatment – Tulsa, OK

Finally Find Jaw Pain Relief

Doctor holding sign that says “TMJ disorder”

Do you struggle with persistent jaw pain and related symptoms, such as headaches and difficulty chewing? You might have TMJ disorder (TMD). This condition can have a big impact on your daily quality of life! The good news is that TMD is usually very manageable. At My Dentist in Tulsa, we are proud to offer multiple types of TMJ treatment that may be the key to helping you finally find jaw pain relief!

Why Choose My Dentist for TMJ Treatment?

  • Multiple Treatment Options
  • Experienced & Knowledgeable Dental Team
  • Effective & Long-Lasting Pain Relief

What Is TMJ Disorder?

Digital illustration of human jaw

TMJ is an acronym that stands for temporomandibular joint. Everyone has two TMJs, one located in front of each ear. They control the movement of your lower jaw. When injury or stress negatively affects the TMJs, you may experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Such issues fall under the broad umbrella of TMJ disorder (TMD).

Anyone can develop TMD, but it is most common among certain groups, including women of childbearing age and individuals with underlying conditions, such as arthritis.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Grimacing woman suffering from TMJ pain

TMJ disorder can cause dozens of symptoms, some of which might not even seem like they are related to the health of your jaw joint! You may need to get evaluated for TMD if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Tenderness and pain in your jaw
  • The sensation of lockjaw or limited jaw mobility
  • Popping and clicking sensations in your jaw
  • Earaches or ringing in your ears
  • Neck, back, and shoulder pain
  • Pain behind your eyes
  • Changes in your bite
  • Frequent headaches and migraines

Types of TMJ Treatment

Patient talking to dental team member about treatment options

Before we can recommend a treatment for your TMD, we will thoroughly assess your teeth and jaw. This may involve X-rays as well as a visual examination. Be sure to tell us as much as possible about your symptoms. Once we gather adequate information, we may be able to determine what is causing your condition and how it can best be treated. We might tell you that one of the following treatment options could be effective in your unique case:

Occlusal Splint

Woman holding occlusal splint close to her mouth

An occlusal splint is an oral orthotic device that resembles a mouthguard that you would wear for sports. These splints are typically worn only at night. They can prevent teeth grinding (a common cause of TMD) and train your lower jaw to rest in a position that minimizes stress on your TMJs.

Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment

Patient smiling up at her dentist

In some cases, TMD arises due to minor discrepancies in occlusion (bite). During equilibration, we make minor adjustments to the surface of your teeth and/or restorations in order to allow your upper and lower teeth to work more harmoniously together. This can relieve strain on your TMJs and your facial muscles.

BOTOX® Injections

Man receiving BOTOX injection in his jaw

While BOTOX is known primarily as a cosmetic treatment, it also has some noteworthy medical applications! We can use it to force your facial muscles to relax, which can lead to significant pain relief. The results can last for several months at a time. Often, BOTOX is most effective when it is combined with other forms of TMJ treatment.