Same-day appointments may be available

TMJ / TMD Treatment

Relief for chronic jaw pain, clicking, and bite-related discomfort.

(703) 671-0626
TMJ / TMD Treatment

What is TMJ / TMD Treatment?

TMJ disorders (TMD) refer to a variety of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints—the hinges connecting your jaw to your skull. We provide customized treatments to alleviate the pain, muscle spasms, and joint damage caused by TMJ dysfunction and nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism).

Ideal Candidates

Patients who suffer from chronic jaw pain, frequent morning headaches, pain or clicking when opening their mouth, earaches, or worn-down teeth from grinding.

Key Benefits

  • Relieves chronic jaw, neck, and facial pain
  • Reduces or eliminates frequent tension headaches
  • Protects your teeth from severe wear, fractures, and sensitivity
  • Improves the function of your jaw joint
  • Non-surgical, conservative treatment approaches

How Does It Work?

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of your TMD. The most common and effective treatment is a custom-fitted occlusal guard (nightguard). Unlike soft, bulky over-the-counter guards, our rigid, custom guards correctly align your jaw and protect your teeth from the immense pressure of grinding while you sleep. We also offer Botox injections to temporarily relax the overactive jaw muscles, providing profound pain relief.

Recovery & Aftercare

Wearing a new nightguard takes a few nights to get used to, but most patients quickly find they cannot sleep without it due to the relief it provides. If Botox is used, you can return to normal activities immediately, with the muscle relaxation taking full effect within a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common signs include waking up with a dull headache or sore jaw, sensitive teeth, or a sleep partner noticing a grinding sound. Dr. Abdeen can also spot signs of wear on your enamel during an exam.

Absolutely. Store-bought boil-and-bite guards are soft, which can actually encourage you to chew on them in your sleep, worsening muscle pain. A custom hard acrylic guard properly supports the joint.

Botox is injected into the masseter and temporalis muscles (your main chewing muscles). It weakens the muscles just enough to stop the involuntary clenching and grinding, stopping the pain without affecting your ability to eat or speak.

Yes, stress is a major trigger for jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Stress management techniques are often recommended alongside our dental treatments.

Ready to get started?

Take the next step toward a healthier smile. We accept most major insurance plans and offer CareCredit financing to make your treatment affordable.

Prefer to call?

(703) 671-0626

Alexandria Smiles Dentistry
Alexandria Smiles

5234 Dawes Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22311

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