
TMJ
When the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) become inflamed or misaligned, it can result in pain, clicking of the jaw, and more.
These symptoms can be alleviated with a bite appliance that brings the jaw joints into proper alignment.
At Dental Solutions in Warsaw, IN, we offer effective TMJ treatment to restore your oral comfort and function.
The Temporomandibular Joints
What Are the TMJs?
You may spend most of your life unaware of the important triangular-shaped joints located in front of your ears. Lined with cartilage, these joints move with a smooth, gliding motion, whether you are opening and closing your mouth or moving the jaw joints in a side-to-side motion. Under normal conditions, the TMJs join your lower jaw and temporal bone and allow for unencumbered oral function and comfort.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
Stress, an improper bite, and other issues can cause the joints to malfunction, causing pain and other symptoms. The temporomandibular joints are sensitive to overall physical, emotional, and psychological stress. They are affected by the mechanics of your bite, the condition of your jaw muscles, and injury. When problems occur, the condition is referred to as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) or TMJ disorder.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
There are many causes of temporomandibular disorders. Small changes in your habits or bite can lead to inhibited function of the jaw. Some of the causes of TMD include:
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Existing bite misalignment
- Changes in your bite
- Erosion or displacement of the disc
- Chronic clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism)
- Damage to the joint's cartilage due to arthritis
- Injury to the joint, such as impact to the face
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular disorders can result in a range of mild to severe symptoms, including:
- Jaw clicking and locking
- Pain or difficulty chewing
- Discomfort or tenderness of the jaw
- Ringing of the ears
- Pain that extends outward to the temples, ears, neck, shoulders, and head
- Facial swelling
- Tooth pain
Contact Dental Solutions in Warsaw, IN
If you clench your jaw, experience facial pain, or have any of the other symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, we encourage you to see a dentist before dental damage occurs. At Dental Solutions in Warsaw, our entire team is committed to helping our patients achieve improved oral function and comfort with effective treatment.
Contact our practice online to ask a question or request a consultation. You can also reach us by phone at:
(574) 269-1199

Hear From Our Patients 5-Star Reviews
I visited Dental Solutions today. I must say everyone I met today was very nice. Dr Stofer explained everything to me. I found a new dentist today. Diffently would recommend them
View on GoogleI could not be more satisfied with Dental Solutions Doctor and staff. Dr Stofer and staff are the best . They make sure each patient receive the best always.
View on GoogleSpecials, Insurance, and Financing
We periodically offer specials on our dental services. We also accept many insurance plans, and our staff will check the terms of your plan to get as much coverage as possible for your TMJ treatment at our Warsaw practice. We also accept financing options from reputable companies.
TMD Treatment
TMJ Appliance
TMJ treatment may involve fitting you with a physiologic bite appliance. This is an extremely effective therapy that can hold your jaw in place while you sleep. It also prevents the chronic clenching and grinding that contributes to TMJ disorder. A bite appliance is a great treatment option for patients suffering from jaw problems due to a range of issues, from arthritis to joint displacement. Another benefit is that it is a conservative treatment approach — patients simply need to wear the appliance while they sleep.
To craft a custom appliance, we will take custom impressions and images at our Warsaw practice. Then, skilled dental lab technicians will fabricate an appliance that offers a precise fit and addresses your TMJ disorder symptoms.
Stress Relief
Stress can affect your health in so many different ways. Stress can trigger bruxism, which makes TMJ disorder worse. Still, many patients are surprised to learn that stress may be contributing to TMD. During your appointment, we can suggest ways to alleviate stress, such as meditation, exercise, and more sleep.
Lifestyle Changes & Other Remedies
Lifestyle changes and other remedies can relieve the symptoms of TMD for some of our patients. Some tips include:
- Avoid chewing gum or hard, chewy food
- Take small bites
- Alternate chewing between both sides of the mouth
- Good nutrition can help the joint heal more quickly
- Good posture can help relieve discomfort
- Maintain a straight back, relaxed neck, and side-sleeping position
- To relieve soreness, light temple and jaw massage can stimulate circulation and relax the muscles
- Alternating moist heat and cold for 20 minutes can further increase circulation and reduce pain
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or analgesics can reduce discomfort and swelling
Orthodontic Care
Bite misalignment is one of the most common contributors to TMD. Depending on the cause, this issue can be addressed with various treatments. Patients with existing bite misalignment may need to undergo orthodontic treatment to bring the teeth and bite into their ideal positions. At our Warsaw practice, we offer Invisalign® to discreetly straighten the teeth and improve the bite. For patients with more severe orthodontic issues that require braces, we can refer you to a skilled orthodontist.
Restorative Dentistry
Patients who have developed changes to their bite due to bruxism, tooth wear, tooth loss, or other dental problems may require treatment to improve the bite. Crowns can be placed over the teeth that have suffered extensive damage and wear to balance the bite. Tooth loss can be addressed with traditional bridges, dentures, or with implant-supported restorations. During your exam, we will determine which treatments are needed to align your bite, and by extension, your temporomandibular joints so you can experience long-term relief from the condition.
"I was very pleased with my experience." Read Our 5-Star Reviews
Fantastic staff from making my 1st appointment on the phone, extremely friendly, great cleaning and very knowledgeable! Dr. Bill is very personable & put me at ease, we made a dental plan for some extensive dental work I’ve been putting off. Found my new dental home at Dental Solutions, feeling very comfortable & welcomed! Thank You!
View on GoogleI was very impressed with the professionalism and care that I received at Dental Solutions. I was greeted promptly upon entering the office. I was impressed with the comfortable waiting area and digital X-Ray technology. I was very pleased with my experience and will return to Dental Solutions for future dental needs.
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