TMJ Treatment
“Jaw pain, clicking, and chronic headaches are not something you have to live with — effective TMJ treatment starts with understanding the root cause.”
What Is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull, just in front of each ear. You use it every time you talk, chew, or yawn. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, the condition is called temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Common Symptoms of TMD
Jaw pain or soreness — especially in the morning
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
Locking of the jaw (open or closed)
Chronic headaches or migraines
Ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears
Neck, shoulder, or facial muscle tension
Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Cause Description
Bruxism (grinding/clenching) Most common — excessive muscle force overloads the joint
Bite misalignment (malocclusion) Uneven bite distribution stresses the joint
Joint degeneration Arthritis or disc displacement within the joint
Trauma Injury to the jaw, head, or neck
Stress Leads to muscle tension and clenching habits
Postural issues Forward head posture increases jaw muscle strain
How Does Dr. Kim Evaluate TMJ?
Dr. Kim’s advanced prosthodontic training includes extensive study of occlusion (bite) and jaw function — areas that general dentists receive limited training in. His evaluation includes:
Detailed review of symptoms and history
Palpation of jaw muscles and joint areas
Assessment of jaw opening range and movement
Bite analysis and occlusal evaluation
Dental X-rays or referral for CBCT imaging if needed
Evaluation of tooth wear patterns
Treatment Options at Remcon Prime Dental
Conservative (First-line) Approaches
Occlusal splint (night guard) — most effective initial treatment
Occlusal adjustment — reshaping bite contacts to reduce joint stress
Patient education — jaw rest, diet modification, habit awareness
Physical therapy referral — for muscle-based TMD
Stress management guidance
When Is Specialist Referral Needed?
For advanced joint pathology (disc displacement, arthritis, structural damage), Dr. Kim will coordinate care with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or TMJ specialist.
Why Prosthodontic Training Matters for TMJ
TMJ disorders are closely linked to bite (occlusion) — how your upper and lower teeth come together. Dr. Kim’s prosthodontic background gives him a deeper understanding of occlusal forces and jaw mechanics than most general dentists, making him well-equipped to identify and manage bite-related TMJ issues.