Comprehensive Care for TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the joints and muscles that control jaw movement, often leading to chronic pain, headaches, jaw stiffness, and difficulty chewing. At Austin Sleep and Airway Health, we take a holistic approach to TMJ therapy. By identifying and addressing the underlying causes—whether it’s teeth grinding, jaw misalignment, arthritis, or stress—we tailor a personalized treatment plan to help you find lasting relief.
Reduce Jaw Pain and Headaches
Targeted therapy to alleviate discomfort.
Restore Jaw Function
Improve your ability to chew, speak, and move your jaw.
Comprehensive Care
Personalized solutions that address the root cause.
Relax Muscles and Decrease Pain
Located on both sides of the head at the point where the jawbone meets the skull, the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) is used during talking, eating, swallowing, and other everyday activities. If this joint becomes displaced or is overworked through excessive teeth grinding, a person may suffer severe tension headaches, as well as sharp pain in the jaw. BOTOX®/Neurotoxins relieves jaw tension by making muscles unable to engage in the powerful, often unconscious movement of the jaw that produces headaches and pain.
The BOTOX®/neurotoxin alternative treatment for TMJ disorders and jaw tension is usually quick, straightforward, and effective as a non-surgical approach delivered directly in Dr. Culotta’s practice.
Relieve Pressure and Tension
Custom-made oral appliances, such as splints or nightguards, are designed to reduce pressure on the TMJ, prevent teeth grinding (bruxism), and help relax jaw muscles. These appliances are worn over the teeth to minimize discomfort and promote healing, offering effective relief for many TMJ-related symptoms.
Correcting Jaw Misalignment
If your TMJ disorder is caused by an uneven bite or jaw misalignment, a bite adjustment (occlusal equilibration) may be recommended. This treatment involves reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth to ensure proper alignment, reducing stress on the TMJ and improving overall jaw function.
Addressing Stress for Lasting Relief
Stress and muscle tension can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Our therapy approach may include relaxation techniques, lifestyle adjustments, and guidance on managing stress to minimize jaw clenching and improve your overall health. By addressing stressors, we help reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ pain.
A Simple Path to Better Sleep and Airway Health
Ready to improve your health and start feeling better? Here’s how to begin
Schedule your initial airway evaluation with Dr. Culotta. This is where we take the time to understand your unique health challenges and concerns.
Based on your evaluation, Dr. Culotta will design a treatment plan specifically for you. We make sure it’s realistic, manageable, and effective.
With your custom plan in place, you’ll begin your journey to better health, improved sleep, and more energy. Follow your steps and get back to living your healthiest lives.
Your questions answered
What is TMJ disorder (TMD)?
TMJ disorder refers to a group of conditions affecting the jaw joints and muscles that control jaw movement, often causing pain, discomfort, and jaw dysfunction.
What are common symptoms of TMJ disorders?
Symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, jaw stiffness, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, ear pain, and facial tenderness.
What causes TMJ disorders?
TMJ disorders can be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw misalignment, arthritis, jaw injuries, or stress-related muscle tension.
How can TMJ therapy help?
Our therapy focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the root cause through personalized treatments such as oral appliances, bite adjustments, stress management, and more.
What conditions can 3D CBCT imaging help diagnose?
It can help identify sleep apnea, enlarged tonsils, airway obstructions, and other sleep-disordered breathing issues.
What is an oral appliance, and how does it help with TMJ?
Oral appliances, like splints or nightguards, are worn over the teeth to reduce pressure on the TMJ, prevent teeth grinding, and help relax jaw muscles.
Is TMJ therapy painful?
Most TMJ therapy options, such as oral appliances and stress management, are non-invasive and designed to provide relief with minimal discomfort.
Will I need surgery for my TMJ disorder?
Surgery is typically considered a last resort. Most patients experience relief through non-surgical treatments like oral appliances, bite adjustments, and lifestyle changes.
Can stress make my TMJ symptoms worse?
Yes, high stress can lead to muscle tension, clenching, and teeth grinding, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
How long does it take to see results?
Many patients notice improvement in their symptoms within weeks of starting therapy. The timeline varies based on individual needs and treatment approaches.
