TMJ Management

We evaluate the jaw joints, bite, and surrounding muscles, explain what we find in clear language, and recommend practical next steps based on your symptoms and function.

What Are TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders, also called TMD, are conditions that affect the temporomandibular joints, chewing muscles, or the way the jaw moves.

Common symptoms can include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Difficulty or discomfort when opening the mouth
• Headaches
• Ear pressure
• Jaw fatigue
• Morning soreness related to clenching or grinding

Symptoms do not always match what appears on an X-ray, which is why a hands-on evaluation is important. If jaw discomfort is affecting sleep, work, eating, or other daily activities, a TMJ evaluation can help determine what may be contributing to the problem.

How Do We Evaluate TMJ Problems?

A TMJ evaluation looks at more than the jaw joint alone. At Top Down Dental, we assess your bite, jaw movement, muscles, symptoms, and dental structures to build a clearer picture of what is happening.

Depending on your needs, your evaluation may include an intraoral camera, digital X-rays, and 3D CBCT imaging — part of the dental technology used across our practice. We may also use TekScan to evaluate bite forces and a TENS unit during select visits to help relax muscles and assess function.

Our digital workflow can also include an iTero digital scanner and intraoral photos. These tools allow us to review your records with you and explain how your bite and jaw function may be related to your symptoms.

What TMJ Treatment Options Are Available?

We generally begin with conservative, noninvasive treatment whenever appropriate. The goal is to reduce strain, protect the teeth, improve comfort, and support healthier jaw function.

Treatment options may include:

• Custom oral appliances or night guards are designed to redistribute pressure and protect the teeth
• Occlusal adjustments guided by digital impressions and TekScan data
• Soft-tissue treatment
• Gentle stretches and at-home exercises to reduce muscle tension

Treatment recommendations depend on your diagnosis. If your symptoms would benefit from additional care, we can coordinate with physical therapists or other specialists.

We avoid irreversible treatment unless it is clearly appropriate for your long-term oral health and function.

What Happens During a TMJ Evaluation?

Your first visit begins with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, and how jaw discomfort affects your daily life.

We then perform a structured examination that may include a jaw function check, digital records, intraoral photos, and imaging when indicated. After reviewing the findings, we explain your options and outline appropriate follow-up care.

Depending on your treatment plan, future visits may include appliance fitting, muscle therapy, bite evaluation, reassessment, or referral to another provider.

Because TMJ disorders vary from person to person, the amount of time needed for improvement also varies based on the cause and severity of the condition.

Can You Reduce TMJ Discomfort at Home?

Certain daily habits may help reduce strain on the jaw and make flare-ups easier to manage.

Try to avoid very hard foods and excessive mouth opening when your jaw is irritated. Gentle jaw stretches, light massage, and awareness of clenching during stressful situations may also help reduce muscle tension.

Sleep position and posture can matter as well. Avoiding stomach sleeping, using a supportive pillow, and checking for jaw tension during phone calls or computer work may help you develop more comfortable habits.

If an oral appliance is recommended, it will be selected based on your individual bite and diagnosis rather than as a one-size-fits-all solution.

When Should You Seek More Care for TMJ Pain?

Consider scheduling an evaluation if jaw pain, headaches, clicking, stiffness, or limited movement continue to interfere with your daily routine.

If initial conservative care does not provide enough improvement, we can reassess your jaw function and refine the treatment plan. That may include modifying an appliance, using TekScan data to guide occlusal therapy, or coordinating specialized physical therapy.

The goal of TMJ management is to reduce discomfort, protect the teeth, and help you return to everyday activities with greater comfort.

Schedule a TMJ Evaluation in Los Gatos

If jaw pain, frequent headaches, or other TMJ symptoms are affecting your day, Top Down Dental in Los Gatos can help you understand what may be contributing to the problem. Dr. Rana Alan and Dr. Nancy Nehawandian will review your symptoms, examine your jaw and bite, and explain practical treatment options based on your needs.

Call Top Down Dental today to schedule your TMJ evaluation.