TMJ Symptoms & Treatment | Oral Appliance Therapy

TMJ Pain Relief: How Oral Appliances Can Improve Your Jaw Function

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a common condition that affects the jaw joint connecting your jaw to your skull. TMJ pain can make everyday tasks like eating, speaking, and chewing difficult. Many patients experience jaw stiffness, headaches, and jaw clicking, which can significantly impact quality of life.

At Black Hills Sleep and TMJ, Dr. Criss explains that TMJ symptoms often worsen without treatment, but effective relief is possible with custom oral appliances designed to reduce jaw strain and restore proper function.

What Is TMJ Disorder? Symptoms & Causes

TMJ disorder, also called TMD, occurs when the temporomandibular joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or stressed. This joint acts like a hinge, and any dysfunction can lead to pain and limited jaw movement.

Common TMJ Symptoms Include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Jaw locking or difficulty opening
• Clicking or popping sounds
• Headaches or migraines
• Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
• Facial swelling or jaw stiffness
• Neck and shoulder tension

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Stress and anxiety
• Poor bite alignment
• Jaw injury or trauma
• Sleep-related disorders

Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent long-term damage and improve treatment success.

How Oral Appliances Help TMJ Pain

Oral appliances for TMJ are non-invasive devices designed to realign the jaw and reduce stress on the joint. They are a popular treatment option because they provide lasting relief without surgery or medications.

Benefits of Oral Appliances for TMJ:

✔ Reduces jaw pain and tension

✔ Improves jaw alignment and movement

✔ Decreases jaw clicking and popping

✔ Reduces headaches caused by TMJ

✔ Prevents teeth grinding at night

✔ Improves sleep quality

These devices are typically worn at night or during periods of increased jaw strain, helping to relax the jaw muscles and protect the TMJ from damage.

Types of Oral Appliances for TMJ Treatment

Choosing the right appliance depends on your specific symptoms and dental structure. Dr. Criss evaluates each patient to determine the best treatment plan.

Common TMJ Oral Appliance Options:

• Stabilization splints
• Night guards
• Jaw repositioning devices
• Bite guards

Each device is customized for a perfect fit and maximum comfort, ensuring effective treatment results.

Custom TMJ Treatment: Why Personalization Matters

Off-the-shelf devices may provide temporary relief, but custom oral appliances deliver long-term results. Dr. Criss emphasizes the importance of

professional customization because every jaw is unique.

Customization Benefits:

• Accurate jaw alignment
• Better comfort and fit
• Faster symptom relief
• Reduced risk of jaw damage

A personalized approach improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent TMJ symptoms from returning.

Find TMJ Relief at Black Hills Sleep and TMJ

If you are experiencing TMJ pain, jaw stiffness, or jaw clicking, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Black Hills Sleep and TMJ offers expert evaluation and personalized treatment options, including custom oral appliances for TMJ.

📞 Schedule a consultation today and start your journey toward a pain-free jaw and better quality of life.