Services Page Banner Image
Services Page Banner Image

TMJ

TMJ Treatment in Chicago, IL

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, or a popping sound when you chew, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder. At Edison Park Smiles, we provide comprehensive TMJ treatment options to relieve discomfort and improve your jaw function, right here in Chicago.

TMJ symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for other health issues. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Darren Simpson, can accurately diagnose and customize a treatment plan to address the root cause of your discomfort — whether it's clenching, grinding, misalignment, or joint inflammation.

Common Signs You May Need TMJ Treatment

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
  • Frequent headaches or migraines
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Locking of the jaw
  • Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears

Our TMJ Treatment Options

At Edison Park Smiles, we offer a range of non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments for TMJ disorder, including:

1. Custom Nightguards

Nightguards help prevent teeth grinding (bruxism), one of the most common contributors to TMJ pain. Our custom mouthguards are designed for a comfortable fit that protects your teeth and relaxes the jaw.

2. Bite Adjustment and Occlusal Therapy

If your bite is uneven, we may recommend reshaping certain teeth or restorative work such as crowns or dental bonding to correct alignment issues.

3. Clear Aligners

In some cases, correcting tooth alignment with Invisalign or clear aligners can significantly improve jaw alignment and alleviate TMJ symptoms.

4. Stress Management & Home Care

Jaw tension is often related to stress. Dr. Simpson may recommend lifestyle changes, jaw exercises, or at-home therapies like warm compresses to supplement in-office treatment.

Why Choose Edison Park Smiles for TMJ Care?

  • Experienced Provider: Dr. Darren Simpson has been treating TMJ disorders since 1999 and remains committed to advanced training in jaw and bite-related disorders.
  • Personalized Plans: Each patient receives a customized treatment plan based on their symptoms, bite alignment, and lifestyle.
  • Technology-Driven Diagnosis: Our modern tools help us precisely evaluate jaw function, tooth wear, and alignment.
  • Integrated Dental Care: TMJ symptoms are often connected to other issues. Our broad range of restorative and cosmetic dentistry services allows us to offer comprehensive care.

Serving Edison Park, Norwood Park, and Park Ridge

Conveniently located in Edison Park, we proudly serve patients throughout Chicago, including Norwood Park, Park Ridge, and surrounding neighborhoods. Our practice is easily accessible and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs.

Related Dental Services

TMJ issues often require an integrated approach. You may also be interested in:

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment

How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?

Dr. Simpson conducts a thorough exam that may include evaluating jaw movement, bite alignment, and X-rays. Diagnosis may also involve checking for tooth wear from grinding.

Is TMJ treatment painful?

No. Most of our TMJ treatments are non-invasive and focused on reducing discomfort, not increasing it. Nightguards and occlusal adjustments are well-tolerated.

Can TMJ go away on its own?

In mild cases, TMJ symptoms may improve without treatment. However, ongoing pain, limited jaw movement, or worsening symptoms should be professionally evaluated.

Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?

Coverage varies. Our team will help verify your benefits and provide a treatment plan tailored to both your dental health and your budget.

Can Invisalign help with TMJ?

Yes. Invisalign and clear aligner treatments can realign your bite and relieve pressure on the jaw joint.

TMJ Treatment North Side Chicago

TMJ
What Is TMJ Disorder?