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TMJ/TMD Treatment

TMJ/TMD Treatment in Roseville & Sacramento, CA

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull, causing pain that radiates through your face, neck, and daily life. Dr. Jefferson Clark’s philosophy is to treat the whole smile, not just isolated symptoms. He is a board-certified prosthodontist and fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists specializing in comprehensive TMJ/TMD treatment that addresses the root causes of jaw dysfunction while restoring comfort, function, and quality of life.

As a specialists trained in the relationship between your teeth, jaw joints, and chewing muscles, Dr. Clark fully understands that effective TMD treatment requires a whole-person approach. Whether you’re experiencing clicking, pain, or limited jaw movement, his Roseville practice serves patients throughout Sacramento, Rocklin, Granite Bay, and Folsom with personalized care plans designed for lasting relief.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

Temporomandibular joints, located in front of each ear, enable essential movements like talking, chewing, and facial expressions. When these joints and adjacent muscles don’t function harmoniously, TMJ disorder (also called TMD) develops. This dysfunction disrupts the balance of your chewing system, often creating a cascade of symptoms that affect your physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Common TMJ/TMD Symptoms

TMJ disorders are revealed through symptoms that impact your daily life and can include:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness, particularly around the joint area in front of the ears
  • Persistent headachesor migraines, especially temple pain upon waking
  • Clicking, popping, or grating soundswhen opening or closing your mouth
  • Jaw lockingthat makes it difficult to fully open or close your mouth
  • Ear pain, pressure, or ringing(tinnitus) without infection
  • Difficulty or pain while chewing, speaking, or yawning
  • Facial painthat may radiate to the neck and shoulders
  • Limited jaw movementor stiffness
  • Changes in your biteor how your teeth fit together

Many of our patients suffered for years before seeking treatment, unaware these symptoms indicate a treatable condition.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders rarely have a single cause. They often result from multiple factors, including:

Mechanical Factors

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching, often during sleep
  • Jaw injury or trauma from accidents or impact
  • Arthritis affecting the temporomandibular joint
  • Disc erosion or displacement within the joint
  • Structural jaw misalignment or malocclusion

Lifestyle and Health Factors

  • Chronic stress leading to muscle tension
  • Poor posture affecting neck and jaw alignment
  • Excessive gum chewing or nail biting
  • Previous dental work that altered your bite
  • Connective tissue disorders

Dr. Clark will identify the specific factors contributing to your TMD. His diagnostic precision ensures he will address the actual causes, not just TMJ symptoms.

Dr. Jefferson Clark showing x rays to female patient

Dental treatment can feel as good as your results!

Whether you are in need of complex care or simple solutions done well, my mission is to develop a new normal to your dental expectations. Beginning with your first visit, I will help you define your oral health goals while taking the time to assess and discuss your specialized dental needs.

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Comprehensive TMJ/TMD Treatment Options

Treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders varies based on severity, underlying causes, and how the condition affects your unique oral system. Dr. Clark develops personalized treatment plans that prioritize conservative, reversible approaches first, progressing to more advanced interventions only when necessary.

Conservative TMJ Treatments

Conservative treatments are less invasive options that can be modified or reversed as necessary and may include:

  • Splint therapy & oral appliances. Custom-fabricated oral splints or nightguards protect your teeth and reposition your jaw to reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint. Unlike generic store-bought guards, Dr. Clark’s precision appliances are designed based on a detailed analysis of your bite, joint position, and muscle function.
  • Physical therapy & jaw exercises. Targeted exercises strengthen jaw muscles, improve range of motion, and retrain movement patterns. Combined with manual therapy techniques, physical therapy helps restore normal joint function and reduce pain.
  • Lifestyle modifications & patient education. Understanding the behaviors that aggravate TMJ pain empowers you to make changes that support healing. We provide coaching on stress management, posture correction, diet modifications (avoiding hard or chewy foods), and relaxation techniques for jaw muscles.

Dr. Clark may also include medication to help manage TMJ/TMD symptoms and provide relief during acute flare-ups. While medical management is not a long-term solution, Dr. Clark employs several therapeutic medications to mitigate pain and discomfort, including:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce joint inflammation
  • Muscle relaxants to ease tension and spasms
  • Pain relievers for symptom management

For more severe inflammation that is resistant to conservative treatment, targeted corticosteroid injections into the joint can provide significant relief while improving function.

Advanced Interventions

When conservative treatments don’t adequately resolve symptoms, more advanced procedures may be appropriate and can include

  • TMJ arthroscopy. Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery allows Dr. Clark to visualize and treat joint problems with small incisions, shorter recovery, and less discomfort than open surgery.
  • Open joint surgery. Reserved for severe cases involving structural damage, this surgical approach repairs or replaces damaged joint components to restore function.

Dr. Clark’s training as a board-certified prosthodontist means he understands precisely how interventions will affect your entire oral system long-term, protecting your joints, teeth, bite, and overall oral health.

Why Choose Dr. Clark for TMJ Treatment?

As one of fewer than 500 board-certified prosthodontists in California, Dr. Clark completed three additional years of advanced training beyond dental school, specializing in the restoration and optimization of oral function. This expertise is invaluable for TMJ treatment, which requires an understanding of how teeth, joints, muscles, and bones work as an integrated system.

Whole-Person, Whole-System Approach

We treat the whole smile, not isolated symptoms. Dr. Clark evaluates your temporomandibular joints within the context of your complete oral health, systemic health, and life goals, addressing the physical, emotional, and functional aspects of TMJ disorders.

Advanced Diagnostic Technology

Accurate diagnosis drives effective treatment. Our Roseville office utilizes cutting-edge diagnostic technology to assess joint position, muscle function, bite alignment, and structural abnormalities to create a comprehensive picture that guides precise treatment planning.

Long-Term Solutions, Not Quick Fixes

Our purpose is to increase oral health for our patients through education, expertise, and whole-person care. We focus on sustainable solutions that address root causes, helping you maintain results for a lifetime rather than temporarily masking pain.

The Connection Between TMJ Health and Your Smile

Healthy temporomandibular joints are fundamental to a healthy smile. When your jaw joints function correctly, your teeth can be positioned ideally, your bite distributes forces evenly, and your facial muscles work without strain. Conversely, TMJ disorders often accelerate tooth wear, increase fracture risk, and compromise previous dental work.

If you’re considering full mouth reconstruction, dental implants, dentures, or cosmetic dentistry, addressing TMJ dysfunction first ensures your new smile functions optimally and lasts longer. Dr. Clark’s comprehensive approach evaluates and optimizes your chewing system before and during restorative treatment, protecting your investment and comfort.

Giving You a Reason to Smile Again!

Dr. Jefferson Clark specializes in restoring smiles and improving function. View our gallery to see real patient results!

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TMJ & TMD FAQs in Roseville, CA

TMJ disorder (TMD) refers to a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. It can cause pain, stiffness, clicking, and difficulty with jaw movement.

TMD can result from multiple factors, including teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, injury, misalignment, stress, or excessive gum chewing.

Symptoms may include:
  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw
  • Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
  • Headaches, ear pain, or facial discomfort
  • Jaw locking or stiffness

A dentist or specialist diagnoses TMD through a physical exam, symptom history, imaging (X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs), and evaluating jaw movement and muscle function.

Mild cases may resolve with rest, stress management, and self-care. However, persistent or severe cases may require professional treatment.

Treatment options include:
  • Jaw exercises and physical therapy
  • Bite splints or mouthguards (nightguards)
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Botox or muscle relaxants
  • Orthodontic treatments or surgery (in severe cases)
  • Apply warm or cold compresses to the jaw
  • Perform gentle jaw stretches and exercises
  • Avoid hard, chewy foods
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Practice relaxation techniques to reduce jaw tension

Yes, TMJ disorders can cause ear pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, and headaches due to the joint’s proximity to the ear and nerves.

Yes, TMD can lead to uneven tooth wear, bite misalignment, and increased risk of grinding and clenching, which may damage teeth over time.

Seek professional help if you experience:
  • Persistent pain or limited jaw movement
  • Jaw locking or clicking that worsens
  • Difficulty eating or speaking
  • Headaches, ear pain, or facial discomfort that doesn’t improve with home care

Treatment duration varies with severity and underlying causes. Many of our patients experience noticeable improvement within weeks of starting conservative therapy, though complete resolution may take several months. Dr. Clark will give you a realistic timeline during your consultation.

Coverage varies by insurance plan and treatment type. Our team verifies benefits and helps you understand your coverage options. Many TMJ treatments qualify for dental insurance coverage, while others may fall under medical insurance.

Untreated TMJ disorders can lead to progressive joint damage, chronic pain, and accelerated tooth wear. Early intervention typically prevents permanent damage and provides the best outcomes.

Conservative TMJ treatments like splint therapy and physical therapy are non-invasive and generally comfortable. Most patients experience gradual pain reduction as treatment progresses. More advanced procedures involve appropriate anesthesia and pain management.

If you experience persistent jaw pain, frequent headaches, clicking or popping joints, difficulty chewing, or jaw locking, evaluation by a specialist is recommended. Early diagnosis often allows for more conservative treatment options.

Dr. Clark conducts a comprehensive evaluation including medical history review, clinical examination of your jaw joints and muscles, bite analysis, and appropriate imaging. He’ll explain his findings, discuss contributing factors, and recommend a personalized treatment plan aligned with your goals and lifestyle.

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Schedule Your TMJ Evaluation in Roseville, CA

Living with TMJ pain affects quality of life from the foods you enjoy to your ability to focus at work or sleep peacefully. Don’t accept jaw pain as your new normal. Dr. Clark and his team will help you understand your condition, explore effective treatment options, and restore the comfort and function you deserve.

Call (916) 783-0122 or request a consultation online.