TMJ Therapy in Riverside, CA

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD) affects the joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. If you experience jaw pain, frequent headaches, or a clicking sound when you open your mouth, you could be suffering from TMJ disorder.

At Van Cao Dentistry in Riverside, CA, we offer personalized TMJ therapy to relieve discomfort, restore jaw function, and help you get back to living pain-free. Dr. Hon Van Cao and Dr. Christina Cao use a combination of advanced diagnostics and customized treatment plans to address TMJ issues effectively and conservatively.

TMJ problems can vary widely in severity, but many patients report symptoms such as:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
  
  
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  
  
• Difficulty chewing or locking of the jaw
  
  
• Frequent headaches or migraines
  
  
• Earaches or a feeling of pressure near the ears
  
  
• Facial pain or tightness

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Early intervention with TMJ therapy can prevent further complications and chronic discomfort.

Our Riverside dental team offers a variety of non-invasive, effective TMJ treatments, including:

• Custom occlusal guards (nightguards): These removable devices reduce clenching and grinding, protecting your teeth and jaw joints. Learn more about occlusal & sports guards.
  
  
• Lifestyle adjustments: We offer guidance on posture, stress management, and dietary habits that may reduce jaw tension.
  
  
• Botox for TMJ: For severe muscle-related tension, Botox therapy may help relax overactive jaw muscles.
  
  
• Bite adjustment therapy: Correcting bite alignment through dental restorations like crowns or Invisalign can reduce jaw strain caused by misalignment.

We tailor each TMJ treatment plan to the specific needs of the patient. Our focus is on restoring comfort and function without the need for surgery.

TMJ issues can stem from a variety of sources. Common contributing factors include:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  
  
• Jaw clenching from stress or anxiety
  
  
• Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint
  
  
• Injury or trauma to the jaw
  
  
• Bite misalignment
  
  
• Poor posture or ergonomics

At Van Cao Dentistry, we perform a detailed evaluation—including physical examination and, when needed, digital X-rays—to identify the root cause of your TMJ pain and develop the most effective treatment approach.

TMJ therapy is just one aspect of our full-spectrum dental services in Riverside. We’re committed to your comfort and long-term oral health, offering a range of related services such as:

• Periodontal therapy to address inflammation that may contribute to jaw tension
  
  
• Smile makeovers and cosmetic enhancements if bite or alignment issues are affecting your function and appearance
  
  
• Orthodontic treatment when jaw pain is due to alignment issues

We also provide guidance on supportive habits and self-care techniques so you can manage symptoms between visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is TMJ therapy?: TMJ therapy refers to treatments aimed at relieving pain and dysfunction in the jaw joints and muscles. It may involve bite guards, Botox, or bite adjustments.
   
   
2. How do I know if I have a TMJ disorder?: Common signs include jaw pain, popping or clicking sounds, difficulty chewing, and headaches. A dental exam and imaging can confirm the diagnosis.
   
   
3. Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?: Some aspects of TMJ treatment may be covered by dental or medical insurance. Our team can review your insurance options and provide an estimate.
   
   
4. Can TMJ issues go away on their own?: Mild TMJ discomfort may resolve with rest and home care. However, chronic or worsening symptoms often require professional treatment.
   
   
5. Is Botox for TMJ safe?: Yes, Botox is an FDA-approved treatment for muscle tension, and it's commonly used to relieve TMJ-related jaw pain when other therapies are not sufficient.

Relieve Jaw Pain with TMJ Therapy in Riverside, CA

You don’t have to live with chronic jaw pain or headaches. At Van Cao Dentistry, we provide personalized, conservative TMJ therapy designed to ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you're in Riverside or a nearby community, we're here to help.