TMJ Therapy

What Is TMJ Therapy?

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder, also known as TMD, affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to pain, discomfort, and limited jaw movement. TMJ therapy focuses on diagnosing and treating these issues to restore function and alleviate symptoms. At Schantz & Moranda Orthodontic Care, we provide personalized TMJ treatment options for patients in Palm Desert, Yucca Valley, and surrounding areas.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Facial pain or swelling
  • Locking of the jaw in an open or closed position

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking TMJ therapy can help prevent worsening conditions and improve your quality of life.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMJ issues can develop due to various factors, including:

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive clenching or grinding can put strain on the jaw joint.
  • Jaw misalignment: An improper bite can create stress on the TMJ.
  • Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or direct impact can damage the jaw joint.
  • Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
  • Stress: High stress levels may lead to muscle tension and jaw clenching.

Understanding the cause of your TMJ disorder helps us create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

TMJ Treatment Options at Schantz & Moranda Orthodontic Care

We offer non-surgical and conservative TMJ treatment solutions to relieve pain and restore proper jaw function. Treatment options include:

  • Custom TMJ Appliances & Night Guards – These devices help reposition the jaw, reduce strain, and prevent teeth grinding.
  • Orthodontic Treatment for Bite Correction – Misaligned teeth can contribute to TMJ issues. Braces or Invisalign can be effective solutions for improving bite alignment. Learn more about our Invisalign treatment.
  • Myobrace Treatment – A preventive approach that helps correct jaw and muscle function to reduce TMJ strain. Read more about Myobrace therapy on our Myobrace services page.
  • Growth Modification for Younger Patients – Early interceptive orthodontic treatments can address jaw discrepancies before they worsen. Find out how growth modification works by visiting our growth modification page.
  • At-Home Care Strategies – We provide guidance on relaxation techniques, jaw exercises, and lifestyle modifications to manage TMJ discomfort.

Our Palm Desert and Yucca Valley offices offer advanced diagnostic technology, including 3D CBCT digital X-rays, to assess your jaw function and develop precise treatment plans. Learn more about how our 3D imaging technology helps in diagnosing TMJ disorders by visiting our digital X-ray technology page.

TMJ Therapy Near You – Serving Palm Desert & Yucca Valley

We proudly serve patients in Palm Desert, Yucca Valley, and nearby communities, including Indio, La Quinta, Desert Hot Springs, and Coachella Valley. Whether you need a custom night guard or orthodontic intervention, our team is committed to providing effective TMJ solutions tailored to your needs.

Would you like to schedule a Consultation?