Find Relief From Jaw Pain and Tension
Jaw pain, headaches and difficulty chewing can disrupt your comfort throughout the day. At Blissful Dental, Dr. Brenda E. Howard provides personalized TMJ treatment in Lanham, Maryland, to help adults manage discomfort and improve jaw function. Call 301-552-2662 to schedule an evaluation.
What Are TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to chew, speak and yawn. Problems affecting these joints or the surrounding muscles are commonly called temporomandibular disorders, or TMD.
Symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain, soreness or stiffness
- Headaches or facial discomfort
- Clicking, popping or grinding sounds
- Difficulty or discomfort when opening your mouth
- Pain while chewing
- Jaw locking or limited movement
- Tooth wear associated with clenching or grinding
- Discomfort near the ears, neck or shoulders
Jaw sounds alone do not always indicate a disorder. However, persistent pain, restricted movement or symptoms that interfere with eating and sleeping should be professionally evaluated.
Evaluating the Source of Your Symptoms
TMJ symptoms can have several contributing factors, including teeth grinding, jaw clenching, muscle tension, bite concerns, injury or stress. Because similar symptoms may also be associated with other conditions, an accurate evaluation is important before recommending treatment.
Dr. Brenda E. Howard will discuss your symptoms, examine your teeth and jaw, and evaluate how comfortably your jaw opens and closes. Our office may use advanced dental technology, including digital imaging or cone beam imaging when appropriate, to gather additional information.
Personalized TMJ Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your symptoms, oral health and the factors contributing to your discomfort. Your individualized plan may include:
- Custom Oral Appliances: A professionally fitted appliance may help protect your teeth and reduce strain associated with nighttime clenching or grinding.
- At-Home Care: Temporary dietary changes, warm or cold compresses and other conservative measures may help manage soreness.
- Habit and Lifestyle Guidance: Identifying jaw tension, chewing habits and other triggers may help reduce unnecessary stress on the joints and muscles.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Follow-up visits allow our team to evaluate your progress and adjust your care when necessary.
When symptoms require care beyond the services available in our office, Dr. Brenda E. Howard will recommend an appropriate referral.
Experienced, Patient-Focused Care
Dr. Brenda E. Howard has provided comprehensive adult dental care in private practice since 1985. She takes a thoughtful approach to diagnosis and treatment, helping patients understand their symptoms and available options before proceeding with care.
Our goal is to help you achieve greater comfort while protecting your teeth, jaw joints and long-term oral health.
Schedule a TMJ Evaluation
If jaw pain, headaches, clenching or limited jaw movement are affecting your daily life, contact Blissful Dental. Call 301-552-2662 to schedule an evaluation for TMJ treatment in Lanham, Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself. TMD is the term used for disorders affecting the jaw joints, chewing muscles and related structures.
Can teeth grinding contribute to TMJ discomfort?
Clenching and grinding may place additional strain on the jaw muscles and joints. They can also contribute to tooth wear, sensitivity and morning jaw soreness.
Can an oral appliance help with jaw pain?
A custom oral appliance may help certain patients by protecting the teeth and reducing strain related to clenching or grinding. Dr. Brenda E. Howard will determine whether an appliance is appropriate after evaluating your symptoms.
When should I seek care for TMJ symptoms?
Schedule an evaluation if you experience persistent jaw pain, difficulty chewing, restricted movement, frequent headaches or a jaw that locks. Seek urgent medical care following a serious facial injury or if you cannot open or close your mouth.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Treatment time varies based on the cause and severity of your symptoms and how you respond to care. Our team will monitor your progress and explain what to expect from your personalized treatment plan.