Head/Neck/TMJ Comfort

Do you struggle with chronic discomfort in your head, neck, or jaw?

These issues may stem from TMD (temporomandibular disorder) or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction—a complex condition that affects the harmonious function of your teeth, jaw, and muscles. At Lais Dentistry, we specialize in identifying the root cause of these issues, offering targeted solutions to restore comfort and improve your quality of life.

head/neck pain relief

What Causes TMD/TMJ Dysfunction?

The jaw’s intricate system of bones, joints, muscles, and teeth must work together seamlessly for chewing, speaking, and swallowing. Problems can arise in the:

Jaw Joints: The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your jawbone to your skull and rely on a cartilage disc for smooth movement. Misalignment or strain can disrupt this system.
Muscles: Overactive or strained jaw muscles can pull the cartilage disc out of place, causing pain and instability.
Bite: A misaligned bite—when upper and lower teeth don’t meet correctly—can prevent proper bracing of the jaw, leading to muscle strain, joint pain, and dysfunction.

An unstable bite or jaw joint can ripple through the body, involving muscles in the neck, back, and shoulders. Over time, this can cause widespread discomfort and even permanent damage to the joints.

Common Symptoms of TMD/TMJ Dysfunction

Headaches

Stress-related aches in the temples and forehead
Shooting or throbbing pain in the back of the head
Migraine or sinus-type headaches

mouth & teeth problems

Grinding or clenching at night
Sensitive teeth (temperature or pressure)
Worn, broken, or crowded teeth
Difficulty swallowing

ear problems

Buzzing or ringing (tinnitus)
Ear pain or a clogged sensation
Vertigo or dizziness

jaw problems

Clicking, popping, or locking jaw joints
Facial muscle pain
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

neck problems

Neck stiffness or soreness
Backaches and muscle tension

airway issues

Snoring or gasping for air during sleep
Poor sleep quality
Mouth breathing
Sleep apnea*

*Airway and sleep apnea issues are often linked to TMD/TMJ dysfunction but can also occur independently. Our team evaluates these connections to ensure precise treatment.

Why Choose a Dentist for TMD Relief?

Because TMD symptoms often mimic other conditions, many people go from doctor to doctor without finding relief. However, dentists with specialized training in TMD are uniquely qualified to assess how your teeth, bite, and jaw joints interact, identifying the root causes of your pain. At Lais Dentistry, we use advanced techniques to diagnose and treat TMD effectively.

Our Process: Assessment and Treatment

Comprehensive Assessment

We begin with a detailed evaluation of your jaw and bite:

Range of Motion: Measuring how far you can open your mouth and your side-to-side movement.
Joint Health: Using Doppler ultrasound to analyze joint function and detect irregularities.
Diagnosis: Determining whether your symptoms stem from joint issues, muscle strain, bite misalignment, or a combination of factors.

Targeted Treatment

Many patients find relief through a full-arch splint, which stabilizes the jaw joints and relaxes overactive muscles. This treatment works like physical therapy for your jaw:

Alleviating discomfort within weeks
Promoting proper alignment of the jaw
Restoring balance between joints and muscles

Once stability is achieved, Dr. Lais can rebuild and restore your bite to its natural form without excessive modification to the teeth. This approach preserves tooth integrity while ensuring long-term harmony among your jaw’s structures.

Take Control of Your Comfort

It’s estimated that 10–15% of Americans experience TMD symptoms, yet many don’t consider seeking help from a dentist trained in this specialized area. If you’re experiencing head, neck, or jaw pain, don’t wait—contact Lais Dentistry today.

Our experienced team will help you find relief, restore function, and protect your oral health for the future. Your path to a healthier, more comfortable life starts here.

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