TMJ is the temporomandibular joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint or the surrounding muscles don’t function properly, it’s called temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Symptoms may include jaw pain, clicking, stiffness, headaches, or difficulty opening your mouth.

What symptoms can TMJ problems cause?

TMJ issues can cause jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, facial tension, ear discomfort, neck strain, and tooth wear. Symptoms may worsen with chewing, stress, or clenching.

Can TMJ cause ear pain or headaches?

Yes. The jaw joint sits close to the ear and shares nerve pathways with the head and neck. TMJ disorders commonly cause ear pain, pressure, ringing in the ears, and tension headaches.

What causes TMJ disorders?

Common causes include clenching or grinding teeth, bite imbalance, muscle tension, arthritis, injury, poor posture, and chronic stress. Many patients have more than one contributing factor.

How is TMJ diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves reviewing symptoms, checking jaw movement, evaluating the bite, examining jaw muscles, and using digital imaging when needed. This helps identify whether the issue is muscle-related, joint-related, or both.

What are the treatment options for TMJ pain?

Most TMJ concerns respond well to non-surgical care such as custom night guards, jaw exercises, bite adjustments, posture guidance, and short-term medication. Surgery is rarely needed.

Is TMJ treatment painful?

TMJ treatment is typically comfortable and non-invasive. You may feel mild soreness as muscles adjust, but most patients tolerate treatment well. Sedation options are available if needed.

How long does TMJ treatment take to work?

Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks. Full symptom relief may take several months depending on severity, consistency with care, and contributing habits like clenching or stress.

Will I need surgery for TMJ?

Symptoms can return if clenching, grinding, or stress continues. Wearing your night guard, following exercises, and attending routine checkups help maintain long-term results.

Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?

Coverage varies by plan. Many dental plans cover exams, imaging, and night guards. Medical insurance may cover certain treatments when medically necessary. Our team verifies benefits before care begins.

When should I contact a TMJ dentist?

You should seek care if jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or locking interfere with eating, speaking, or sleep. Early evaluation helps prevent symptoms from worsening.

How do I schedule a TMJ consultation?

You can call (562) 242-1411 — Phones Answered 24/7 or book online at Book Now to schedule your TMJ evaluation.

(562) 242‑1411

Trusted by Thousands, Across 23 Locations

TMJ Treatment

Relief From Jaw Pain, Clicking & Tension — Phone Support Available 24/7

TMJ treatment addresses jaw pain, clicking, locking, or tension linked to bite imbalance or muscle strain. Patients often seek care when headaches or facial discomfort persist. Evaluation looks at joint movement, bite forces, and habits like clenching that affect symptoms over time.

Open weekends including Sundays (hours vary by location).

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, and TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder.
Who’s affected? Temporomandibular disorders occur in roughly 5–12% of the population, affecting more women than men.
Common complaints: Headaches (79%), clenching or bruxism (58%), jaw pain (54%) and ear symptoms (52%) are among the most frequently reported signs of TMD.
Splint success: Custom occlusal splints can reduce maximum jaw stress by about 71% in bruxism patients and improve pain and jaw movements.
Timeline: Most mild to moderate TMDs respond to conservative therapy within 3–6 months when diagnosed early—long‑term success depends on consistent splint wear and lifestyle modifications.

Clear answers for jaw pain, clicking, and tension.

What Is TMJ & TMD?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint—the hinge that lets your jaw open, close, and move smoothly. When the joint or nearby muscles don’t work together as they should, the condition is called temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMJ problems can lead to jaw pain, clicking or locking, headaches, ear discomfort, facial tightness, and sometimes ringing in the ears. Common triggers include clenching, grinding, bite imbalance, injury, arthritis, and daily stress.

Our dentists and TMJ-focused providers review how your bite fits together, how your jaw moves, and how the surrounding muscles respond. When helpful, we coordinate with your physician, ENT, or physical therapist to rule out other causes. Most TMJ concerns respond well to non-surgical care such as custom night guards, guided jaw exercises, and bite adjustments. More advanced treatments are considered only when needed.

Jaw Function Evaluated Before Therapy

Why TMJ Treatment at Gold Coast Dental

Expert diagnosis, conservative treatment options, and steady support from start to follow-up.

Thorough TMJ evaluation

We perform a detailed exam using muscle palpation, range-of-motion checks, digital impressions, and 3D imaging. Watching how your jaw moves helps us plan care that fits your symptoms and bite.

Non‑surgical treatment

Conservative care such as custom splints and night guards, guided jaw exercises, and posture support can reduce jaw strain and protect your teeth—often without surgery.

Holistic approach

Jaw discomfort often links to daily habits and muscle tension. We offer guidance on posture, jaw use, and lifestyle factors, and coordinate care with physical therapists when helpful.

Comfort & sedation

Local anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation help you stay relaxed during procedures such as splint adjustments or injections. Your comfort matters at every visit.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

4.6 / 5

+500 reviews

Our patients are at the heart of everything we do. Read their stories and discover how compassionate care and trusted dentistry have made a difference in their smiles.

My jaw clicking was driving me nuts, esp in the mornings. TMJ treatment helped loosen things up fast. Less tension, fewer headaches, and chewing doesn’t feel like work anymore. Didn’t realize how much it affected my day till it eased up.

Kareem V., La Habra

I had jaw pain that came and went for months, kinda ignored it tbh. TMJ care made a real difference. The tight feeling eased, and my face doesn’t feel sore by the end of the day anymore. Getting enough sleep feels amazing!

Isla P., Goleta

My jaw used to pop every time I yawned, which was super annoying. After TMJ treatment, it calmed down a lot. Less stiffness, less pressure, and talking feels normal again. Honestly didn’t expect it to help this much.

Ronen A., Diamond Bar

I thought my headaches were just stress, but TMJ was part of it. Once treatment started, the tension eased up. My jaw feels looser now, and those random face aches finally backed off. Feels good not dealing with that daily.

Bianca S., Orange

Check Your Jaw Health

Answer a few quick questions to gauge your risk for TMD.

How Treatment Works

Your Path to TMJ Treatment: Timeline & Process

Initial evaluation

We review your dental and health history, check how your bite fits together, assess jaw movement, and gently examine the surrounding muscles. Digital imaging helps us see how the joint functions during movement.

Initial evaluation

Diagnosis & care outline

We explain what’s contributing to your symptoms—muscle tension, joint stress, or both—and outline the care options that fit your needs. This may include a custom splint, guided exercises, short-term medication, or referral when helpful.

Diagnosis & care outline

Active therapy & follow-up

You begin using your custom device and following the recommended jaw exercises. We track how your symptoms respond and make adjustments during follow-up visits to keep progress steady.

Active therapy & follow-up

You begin using your custom device and following the recommended jaw exercises. We track how your symptoms respond and make adjustments during follow-up visits to keep progress steady.

Bite support & correction

If bite imbalance plays a role, we may suggest orthodontic or restorative care to help balance forces across your teeth and jaw. This step is considered only when it supports long-term comfort.

Bite support & correction

If bite imbalance plays a role, we may suggest orthodontic or restorative care to help balance forces across your teeth and jaw. This step is considered only when it supports long-term comfort.

Long-term support

Once symptoms settle, we focus on maintaining results with routine checkups, proper night guard use, and habit awareness such as clenching or grinding.

Long-term support

Once symptoms settle, we focus on maintaining results with routine checkups, proper night guard use, and habit awareness such as clenching or grinding.

Understanding Jaw Pain Before Care

How Jaw Function Is Evaluated

This visit focuses on identifying causes of jaw pain or tension to plan care that supports comfort.

Symptom Review

We discuss jaw pain, headaches, clicking, and stiffness to understand how symptoms affect daily activities.

Jaw Movement Check

We examine jaw movement, range of motion, and muscle tenderness to identify strain or imbalance.

Bite Assessment

We review how teeth fit together to see if bite issues may contribute to jaw stress.

Care Direction

You leave with a clear explanation of likely causes and which non-surgical options may help.

Steadier jaw movement for lasting comfort

Why TMJ Care Matters

The temporomandibular joint supports speaking, eating, and facial movement. When it doesn’t function properly, jaw joint pain or jaw locking may occur, along with symptoms such as headache, facial tension, ear discomfort, or teeth grinding. In some cases, underlying conditions like temporomandibular arthritis can contribute to stiffness and inflammation over time. These issues may interfere with sleep, meals, and daily comfort. Addressing TMJ concerns helps protect the joint, reduce strain on teeth, and support steadier jaw function.

Support Between Visits — and Help When It Matters Most.

Managing TMJ Symptoms Daily

Between visits, gentle jaw use and daily habits can support progress. This may include avoiding hard or chewy foods, using warm compresses, and keeping good posture during work or screen use. Wearing your custom night guard as directed is important if clenching or grinding occurs.

If your jaw suddenly locks, pain increases with chewing or speaking, or swelling appears near the ear, contact us right away. Same-day evaluations are available for sudden flare-ups or jaw injuries, and we coordinate care with specialists when needed.

Relief for Jaw Pain & Tension

Clinical Treatment Gallery

Feel relief with personalized TMJ solutions designed for comfort, balance, and long-term jaw health.

Older woman touching her jaw due to TMJ pain

Notice: We evaluate jaw movement and muscle tension, then outline practical solutions. Most patients leave with a customized at-home care plan and treatment roadmap.

Have questions about your treatment? We’ll guide you every step of the way.

Book Your Consultation Today

We’ll evaluate jaw function and symptoms to plan TMJ treatment that reduces discomfort and supports daily function in California and Texas.

FAQ

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Find quick answers to the most common questions our patients ask.

TMJ is the temporomandibular joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint or the surrounding muscles don’t function properly, it’s called temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Symptoms may include jaw pain, clicking, stiffness, headaches, or difficulty opening your mouth.

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Meet

Our Doctors

Our dental team evaluates jaw function to reduce TMJ strain and discomfort.

Dr. Ali Jasim

General & Cosmetic Dentist

DDS

Dr. Bryant Nguyen

Orthodontist

DDS

Dr. Adrian Acosta

General Dentist

DDS

Dr. Simon Cheong

Oral Surgeon

DDS

Dr. Richard Furuichi

Prosthodontist

DDS

Dr. Mohamed Bassel

General Dentist

DDS

Care

A Better Dental Visit Awaits

We know a great dental experience goes beyond clinical care. Here’s how we make your visits comfortable and stress‑free.

Convenient Scheduling

We’re open seven days a week with evening and weekend appointments at multiple locations. Same‑day visits are available so you never have to wait for relief.

Affordable Excellence

High‑quality dental care should be within reach. We accept most PPO and many HMO plans, offer interest‑free payment plans and have in‑house specials for new patients.

Relaxing Visits

Our modern offices feature state‑of‑the‑art technology, comfortable treatment rooms and entertainment options to help you feel at ease throughout your visit.

New Patient Specials

Book now and save with our limited‑time offers:

$49

New Patient Cleaning & Exam

Free X‑rays, exam and consultation. New patients only.

Coverage Checked Before You Commit

Insurance Verification

We work with most major PPO and HMO plans.

We help you understand your available options before treatment begins. If you don’t have insurance, we explain in-house financing, installment plans, and current new-patient offers, including our $49 new-patient special.

Covered by Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, Aetna and more
Flexible payment options
Instant insurance verification available

How the Verification Process Works

You share your insurer and basic details.
Our insurance team verifies benefits and limitations.
We explain estimated out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
You decide how to proceed—insurance, financing, or self-pay.

Find a Gold Coast Dentist Near You

Find Your Closest Dentist & Office Hours

Our dental offices are typically open 7 AM – 7 PM, including weekends and Sundays.

Hours may vary by location. Check the location page or call us to confirm availability.

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اگر شما به زبان فارسی صحبت می‌کنید و به دنبال دندانپزشک فارسی زبان هستید، کلینیک دندانپزشکی Gold Coast Dental آماده ارائه خدماتی مانند دندانپزشک اورژانس، ایمپلنت، ارتودنسی و زیبایی دندان با انواع بیمه به شماست.

Si usted habla español y está buscando un dentista que hable su idioma, la clínica dental Gold Coast Dental ofrece servicios como emergencias dentales, implantes, ortodoncia y estética dental con diferentes seguros.

한국어를 사용하시고 한국어 가능한 치과를 찾고 계시다면, 골드코스트 덴탈 치과 클리닉은 응급치료, 임플란트, 교정 및 미용 치과 서비스를 다양한 보험과 함께 제공합니다.

如果您说中文并正在寻找讲中文的牙医，Gold Coast Dental 牙科诊所提供紧急牙科、种植牙、牙齿矫正和美容牙科服务，并接受各种保险。

日本語を話される方で日本語対応の歯科医をお探しであれば、Gold Coast Dental 歯科クリニックでは救急歯科、インプラント、矯正歯科、美容歯科など、各種保険対応のサービスを提供しています。

Please call (562) 242‑1411 or find your nearest dentist here.

American Academy of Family Physicians. (2023). Temporomandibular disorders (TMD): Symptoms, diagnosis, and management. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2023/0100/temporomandibular-disorders.html

Al-Saleh, M. A., Alsufyani, N. A., & Al-Madi, E. M. (2022). Effects of occlusal splint therapy on pain intensity, jaw function, and muscle activity in patients with bruxism: A systematic review. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 49(6), 567–578. https://doi.org/10.1111/joor.13308

Greene, C. S. (2010). Diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular disorders: Emergence of a new care guideline. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 37(3), 159–171. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2009.02037.x

TMJ Treatment

What Is TMJ & TMD?

Why TMJ Treatment at Gold Coast Dental

Thorough TMJ evaluation

Non‑surgical treatment

Holistic approach

Comfort & sedation

What Our Clients Say

Your Path to TMJ Treatment: Timeline & Process

Initial evaluation

Diagnosis & care outline

Active therapy & follow-up

Bite support & correction

Long-term support

How Jaw Function Is Evaluated

Symptom Review

Jaw Movement Check

Bite Assessment

Care Direction

Why TMJ Care Matters

Managing TMJ Symptoms Daily

Clinical Treatment Gallery

Book Your Consultation Today

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers

What is TMJ and TMD?

What symptoms can TMJ problems cause?

Can TMJ cause ear pain or headaches?

What causes TMJ disorders?

How is TMJ diagnosed?

What are the treatment options for TMJ pain?

Is TMJ treatment painful?

How long does TMJ treatment take to work?

Will I need surgery for TMJ?

Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?

When should I contact a TMJ dentist?

How do I schedule a TMJ consultation?

Explore More Dental Services

Dental Crowns & Bridges

Oral Surgery

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Preventive Dentistry

Restorative Dentistry

Our Doctors

A Better Dental Visit Awaits

Convenient Scheduling

Affordable Excellence

Relaxing Visits

New Patient Specials

New Patient Cleaning & Exam

Insurance Verification

How the Verification Process Works

Find Your Closest Dentist & Office Hours

Store Direction

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