TMJ Therapy in Baton Rouge

What Is TMJ Disorder (TMD)?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) controls jaw movement, allowing you to chew, speak, and yawn. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when this joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, leading to pain and restricted movement.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Frequent headaches or migraines
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
• Ear pain, ringing (tinnitus), or pressure
• Jaw locking or stiffness
• Neck, shoulder, or facial pain

Left untreated, TMJ issues can worsen over time, leading to chronic discomfort and difficulty eating or speaking. Early intervention with customized TMJ therapy can help prevent further complications.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder can develop due to various factors, including:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Excessive clenching or grinding puts strain on the jaw joint.
• Jaw misalignment – An improper bite can cause uneven pressure on the TMJ.
• Stress and muscle tension – Chronic stress can lead to jaw tightening and discomfort.
• Injury or trauma – A blow to the jaw or head can result in joint damage.
• Arthritis or joint degeneration – Inflammatory conditions can affect TMJ function.

If you have chronic teeth grinding, we may recommend nightguards and oral appliances to protect your jaw and teeth from further damage.

TMJ Treatment Options at Kidder Dental

At Kidder Dental, we offer customized treatment plans designed to relieve TMJ pain and restore proper function.

1. Custom Oral Appliances (Nightguards & Splints)

A custom-fitted oral appliance helps reposition the jaw and reduce strain on the TMJ. These appliances:

• Prevent teeth grinding and clenching
• Help relax jaw muscles and alleviate tension
• Reduce headaches, jaw pain, and facial discomfort

2. Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)

If a misaligned bite contributes to TMJ pain, we may recommend an occlusal adjustment to balance your bite and reduce stress on the jaw joint.

3. Botox Therapy for TMJ Pain

Botox injections can help relax overactive jaw muscles, reducing tension and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder. This treatment is particularly effective for patients with chronic jaw clenching or migraines.

4. Physical Therapy & Jaw Exercises

Guided stretching and strengthening exercises can improve jaw mobility and relieve tension in the surrounding muscles.

5. Stress Management & Lifestyle Modifications

Since stress and anxiety can contribute to TMJ symptoms, we may recommend relaxation techniques, posture improvements, and dietary changes to reduce strain on the jaw.

6. Orthodontic Treatment (If Needed)

For patients with bite misalignment, Invisalign or other orthodontic solutions may help correct jaw positioning and relieve TMJ strain.

If non-invasive therapies are not effective, we may refer patients for oral surgery in severe cases of TMJ dysfunction.

Who Can Benefit from TMJ Therapy?

TMJ therapy is recommended for patients who:

• Experience persistent jaw pain, clicking, or popping sounds
• Have difficulty chewing, speaking, or opening their mouth fully
• Suffer from frequent headaches, ear pain, or facial discomfort
• Grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep
• Have jaw misalignment or an uneven bite

If left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to more severe jaw problems, including joint damage and muscle fatigue. Seeking treatment early can help prevent long-term complications.

Why Choose Kidder Dental for TMJ Therapy?

At Kidder Dental, we specialize in personalized, non-invasive TMJ treatments to help you regain comfort and function.

What Sets Us Apart?

• Expertise in TMJ & Bite Disorders – Dr. Dustin Kidder and Dr. Elizabeth Kidder have advanced training in jaw function and restorative dentistry.
• State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Technology – We use digital imaging and bite analysis to pinpoint the cause of TMJ issues.
• Customized, Conservative Treatments – We prioritize non-invasive solutions before considering surgical options.
• Comprehensive Dental Care – From ceramic crowns to full mouth reconstruction, we offer complete dental solutions.
• Comfort-Focused Approach – Patients with dental anxiety can benefit from sedation dentistry for a relaxing experience