Restorative Dentistry
TMJ/TMD Treatment
Jaw pain, clicking, and headaches can quietly take over your daily life. Understanding the cause is the first step toward lasting relief.
Reviewed by Dr. Sang Kim, DMD — Updated April 2026
What are TMJ and TMD?
The temporomandibular joint — TMJ for short — is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, just in front of each ear. When this joint or the muscles around it become strained, inflamed, or misaligned, the condition is called temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. At Bridgewater Dental Center, Dr. Sang Kim helps patients across Bridgewater, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham County identify the source of their jaw discomfort and find a treatment path that brings real relief.
Common symptoms
TMD can show up in ways you might not immediately connect to your jaw. If you experience any of the following on a regular basis, it is worth having Dr. Kim take a closer look:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ear when chewing, speaking, or yawning
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide or a feeling that the jaw is locked in place
- Frequent headaches, earaches, or neck and shoulder tension that seem unrelated to other causes
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth — often a sign of nighttime clenching or grinding (bruxism)
Night guards and occlusal splints
One of the most effective and conservative treatments for TMD is a custom-fitted night guard. Unlike the boil-and-bite guards sold in stores, a professional night guard is designed from precise impressions of your teeth. It cushions the bite, reduces clenching pressure, and protects your teeth and restorations — including dental crowns — from grinding damage while you sleep. Dr. Kim may also recommend an occlusal splint, which repositions the jaw into a more relaxed alignment to relieve muscle strain.
Therapy and lifestyle adjustments
Many TMD cases improve significantly with a combination of approaches. Jaw exercises and physical therapy can strengthen supporting muscles and increase range of motion. Stress management techniques help reduce unconscious clenching during the day. Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants may be used short-term to break the pain cycle. In some cases, bite adjustment — gently reshaping certain tooth surfaces — can improve the way your upper and lower teeth come together and reduce strain on the joint.
Living with jaw pain is not something you need to accept. Call Bridgewater Dental Center at 540-443-2659 to schedule a TMJ evaluation, or visit our restorative dentistry page to see how TMD treatment fits within our comprehensive care approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes TMJ/TMD?+
TMD can result from clenching or grinding your teeth, an injury to the jaw, arthritis in the joint, stress-related muscle tension, or a misaligned bite. In many cases it's a combination of factors, and Dr. Kim will help identify what's driving your symptoms.
How do I know if I have TMD?+
Common signs include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping when you open your mouth, frequent headaches, earaches, and difficulty opening wide. If any of these sound familiar, it's worth scheduling an evaluation at our Bridgewater office.
Will TMJ problems go away on their own?+
Some mild cases improve with rest and self-care, but persistent symptoms usually need professional attention. Left untreated, TMD can worsen over time and lead to chronic pain, tooth damage, and difficulty eating.
What is a night guard and how does it help?+
A custom night guard is a thin appliance you wear while you sleep. It cushions your bite, reduces clenching pressure, and protects your teeth and restorations from grinding damage. Unlike store-bought guards, ours are made from precise impressions for a comfortable, secure fit.
Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?+
Coverage varies by plan. Some dental and medical policies cover night guards, splints, and related therapies. Our Bridgewater team will verify your benefits and help you understand what's covered before treatment starts.
Can TMD cause headaches?+
Yes. The muscles that control your jaw are connected to your temples, neck, and shoulders. When those muscles are strained or overworked from clenching and grinding, the tension often shows up as frequent headaches or migraines.
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