TMJ Therapy in Oak Lawn, IL
If you’re dealing with chronic jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort when chewing, your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may be to blame. At Inside The Smile, we offer personalized TMJ therapy in Oak Lawn to help relieve tension, protect your teeth, and restore healthy jaw movement.
Dr. Michael B. Smith has advanced experience diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders using conservative, non-surgical methods—including the innovative VIDA and POD appliances, which have delivered excellent results for many of our patients.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
Your TMJ connects your lower jaw to the base of your skull and plays a key role in speaking, chewing, and overall facial movement. When the joint becomes strained, misaligned, or inflamed, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Pain or stiffness in the jaw
- Clicking or popping when opening and closing the mouth
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Facial soreness or tension
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth wide
- Earaches or a feeling of pressure in the ears
- Worn, cracked, or sensitive teeth from grinding
This condition is known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), and it often goes undiagnosed until symptoms worsen or begin to affect daily life.
Customized TMJ Treatment Options
At Inside The Smile, we focus on conservative, reversible treatment methods that target the root causes of your symptoms without surgery. Dr. Smith begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
- Review of your medical and dental history
- Assessment of your bite and jaw function
- Imaging or scans if needed to evaluate joint structure and alignment
From there, we create a personalized therapy plan which may include:
- A custom occlusal appliance (nightguard) to reduce grinding or clenching
- Bite balancing to adjust minor alignment issues
- Bruxism Treatment to minimize tooth wear
- At-home jaw exercises and lifestyle modifications
- Advanced oral orthotics like the VIDA or POD appliances
VIDA and POD Appliance Therapy
One of the most effective tools we offer for TMJ management is the use of the VIDA (Vertical Intraoral Disclusion Appliance) and POD (Posterior Occlusal Disclusion) systems. These specialized orthotics are designed to:
- Relieve muscle tension by repositioning the jaw into a more relaxed state
- Reduce pressure on the TMJ during clenching or biting
- Stabilize the jaw and improve bite alignment
- Alleviate tension headaches and facial discomfort
Patients treated with the VIDA or POD appliances often experience significant improvements in symptoms such as jaw soreness, morning headaches, and muscle fatigue. These appliances are custom-fitted to ensure a precise and comfortable fit, and are worn during sleep or as directed.
How TMJ Therapy Protects Your Smile
Left untreated, TMJ issues can lead to further complications, including:
- Excessive wear on enamel
- Fractured or chipped teeth
- Gum recession
- Bite misalignment
- The need for restorative treatments like dental crowns
By addressing jaw dysfunction early, we can help protect your teeth, reduce pain, and improve quality of life without the need for surgery or extensive restorative care.
FAQs
How do I know if I need TMJ therapy?
If you frequently experience jaw pain, headaches, or hear clicking when opening your mouth, you may have TMD. A clinical exam is the best way to confirm the cause of your symptoms and determine whether treatment is needed.
Is the VIDA/POD appliance uncomfortable to wear?
Not at all. These appliances are custom-made and adjusted to your bite, making them far more comfortable than generic nightguards. Most patients adapt quickly and report improved sleep and reduced jaw tension.
Will insurance cover TMJ treatment?
Some medical or dental insurance plans may cover TMJ therapy, especially if the condition affects your ability to eat or speak. We’ll help you understand your coverage and provide flexible payment options if needed.
How long does TMJ therapy take?
Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of your condition. Many patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks of using their custom appliance.
Our clinic offers multiple booking options. You can schedule online through our website, call our reception, or email for urgent consultations. We aim to respond within 24 hours.
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Find Relief with TMJ Therapy in Oak Lawn
Chronic jaw pain doesn’t have to be your normal. At Inside The Smile, we provide personalized, proven solutions—including the VIDA and POD appliances—to help you feel better and protect your smile.