Nobody deserves to live with constant mouth pain. However, those suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (commonly called TMJ disorder or TMD) often experience recurring jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort. This occurs when the TMJ, which connects the jaw to the skull, becomes inflamed and overworked. TMJ disorder can develop for various reasons, including genetics, misaligned teeth, or trauma from an accident affecting the head or jaw. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s worth scheduling a consultation with a trusted TMJ specialist in Los Angeles.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:
- Popping or clicking sounds when using your mouth
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Recurring earaches
- Mouth or neck pain
- Your jaw “locks” open or closed
Diagnose Your TMJ Concerns With an Oral Exam
TMJ disorder often goes underdiagnosed because many people assume their pain or discomfort is simply due to stress and, as a result, never seek proper treatment. However, while stress may be a factor for some, it’s essential to have an oral exam performed by a dental professional trained in TMJ therapy to determine the true cause.
Dr. Mahnaz Rashti has years of experience and specialized training in diagnosing and treating even the most complex TMJ cases. In many instances, Dr. Rashti finds that a patient’s TMJ concerns stem from a collapsed bite or a lack of posterior tooth support.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
Overview
If you’re searching for a trusted TMJ specialist in Beverly Hills, you’re in the right place. When it comes to treating TMJ disorder, MR Dental Aesthetics offers a variety of solutions tailored to the severity of your condition. After an official diagnosis, Dr. Rashti will develop a personalized treatment plan to help alleviate your symptoms.
For mild cases, adjusting the bite by realigning the jaw or teeth can provide relief. For more complex cases, full-mouth reconstruction may be the best solution. This approach restores missing teeth that contribute to a collapsed bite and lack of jaw support—both of which place excessive strain on the jaw joints. It’s crucial to seek care from an experienced TMJ treatment specialist to ensure proper muscle therapy and, when necessary, surgical intervention.
Nightguards
Nightguards are specially designed oral appliances that play a crucial role in alleviating TMJ disorder symptoms. They work by reducing strain on the jaw joints and muscles, making them especially beneficial for patients who grind their teeth or clench their jaws during sleep. This cushioning effect not only relieves stress on the jaw but also helps prevent wear and tear on teeth—a common consequence of prolonged grinding or clenching. A custom nightguard from a TMJ specialist ensures a precise fit for optimal protection and comfort.
Occlusal Adjustment
For milder TMJ cases, Dr. Rashti can identify bite imbalances and make the necessary adjustments to correct them. In many cases, this involves minor reshaping of the tooth cusps to improve alignment. Alternatively, an oral appliance may be used to help realign the jaw.
Facial Rejuvenation
While often associated with cosmetic procedures, facial rejuvenation has shown promising results in alleviating TMJ disorder symptoms. This treatment targets specific muscles in the face and jaw that contribute to temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The procedure involves injecting a specialized solution to relax these muscles, reducing tension and discomfort. It can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing severe jaw tension and frequent headaches.
Dental Implants
Many patients who are missing their back teeth (molars) experience TMJ issues because their jaw remains misaligned both at rest and in motion. This imbalance places excessive strain on the jaw joints, forcing them to work harder to maintain proper function. By replacing missing teeth with implants, balance can be restored, often providing immediate relief. Dr. Rashti is the TMJ specialist patients trust for full-arch replacements, crowns, and other implant restorations.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
For severe cases of TMJ disorder, full-mouth reconstruction may be necessary. Dr. Rashti will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes multiple restorative and functional solutions to correct the issue. This may involve a combination of occlusal adjustments, dental implants, and even bone grafting to achieve long-term success. While comprehensive, the results are well worth the effort.
Choose an Experienced TMJ Professional
If you’re living in constant discomfort, you owe it to yourself to seek the best care possible. Dr. Rashti and our team at MR Dental Aesthetics in Beverly Hills, CA, are dedicated to identifying the root cause of your TMJ issues and providing an effective solution.
As a renowned TMJ specialist, Dr. Rashti focuses on patient-centered care, crafting treatment plans that not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying issue directly. Her goal is to help you move past discomfort, reclaim your quality of life, and smile with confidence again. At MR Dental Aesthetics, we take pride in being one of the best TMJ clinics in Los Angeles.
TMJ FAQs
Can TMJ Disorder Go Away on Its Own?
In mild cases, TMJ symptoms may improve with time, lifestyle changes, and stress management. However, if the condition persists or worsens, seeking professional evaluation and treatment is recommended to prevent long-term complications.
How Long Does TMJ Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies based on the severity of the case and the chosen treatment plan. Some patients experience relief within weeks, while others require ongoing therapy or full-mouth reconstruction for lasting results.
How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?
A TMJ specialist will perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical examination, digital imaging (such as CT scans or MRIs), and a bite analysis to assess jaw alignment and joint function.
When Is Surgery Necessary for TMJ Disorder?
Surgery is typically considered a last resort for severe TMJ cases that do not respond to conservative treatments. Procedures may include arthrocentesis (joint flushing), arthroscopy, or open-joint surgery in extreme cases.
Can Missing Teeth Cause TMJ Disorder?
Yes, missing teeth—especially molars—can lead to jaw misalignment and excessive strain on the TMJ. Replacing missing teeth with implants or other restorations can help restore balance and alleviate symptoms.
Why You Should Choose Us
When it comes to choosing a professional for your cosmetic smile care, Dr. Mahnaz Rashti is the clear choice. With over 20 years of experience, she is recognized worldwide for her skill and commitment to excellence. Across all aspects of her practice, Dr. Rashti consistently delivers outstanding results—and as your TMJ specialist, she will do the same for you.
Most importantly, Dr. Rashti genuinely cares about her patients. She takes the time to listen to their concerns and collaborates with them to develop a treatment plan that aligns with their expectations. Her goal is to help each patient achieve their best possible smile, combining superior technical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. If you’re prepared to alleviate the pain caused by TMJ disorders, schedule your consultation today.
