TMJ Treatment

Treatment

    TMJ Treatment in NYC Jaw pain, headaches, worn-down teeth, and a clicking or popping jaw joint are often connected to the same underlying issue: dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. Dr. Alex Gause offers a range of TMJ treatment options designed to address both the discomfort and the underlying cause. Schedule a TMJ evaluation…

    TMJ Treatment in NYC

    Jaw pain, headaches, worn-down teeth, and a clicking or popping jaw joint are often connected to the same underlying issue: dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. Dr. Alex Gause offers a range of TMJ treatment options designed to address both the discomfort and the underlying cause.

    Schedule a TMJ evaluation to begin identifying what is straining your jaw and which options may help you feel more comfortable.

    What Is TMJ Treatment?

    TMJ (temporomandibular joint) treatment addresses problems with the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, along with the muscles that control it. TMJ dysfunction can show up in a number of ways: jaw pain or tightness, clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth, headaches (particularly upon waking), and visibly worn or flattened teeth from grinding.

    Our TMJ treatment typically involves one or more of the following, tailored to the specific cause and severity of your symptoms:

    • Night guards/bite guards, custom-fitted appliances worn during sleep to protect your teeth from the effects of clenching and grinding, and to help position the jaw more comfortably
    • Bite therapy, adjustments aimed at correcting how your teeth meet, which can be a contributing factor in jaw strain and muscle tension
    • Botox, used to relax overactive jaw muscles associated with clenching and grinding, often alongside a night guard rather than as a stand-alone treatment
    • Oral appliances for sleep apnea, in select cases where jaw positioning during sleep is a contributing factor to your sleep apnea concerns

    Night guards and other appliances are often fabricated using in-office 3D printing, allowing for a precise, custom fit based on a digital scan of your teeth rather than a traditional impression.

    Benefits of TMJ Treatment

    Relief from chronic discomfort

    For patients dealing with recurring jaw pain, tension headaches, or facial soreness, addressing the underlying cause—rather than just managing symptoms as they arise—can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day comfort.

    Protection for your teeth

    Grinding and clenching don’t just cause jaw discomfort; over time, they wear down tooth enamel, crack teeth, and can compromise existing dental work like crowns and veneers. A custom night guard is one of the most effective ways to prevent this ongoing damage.

    A multi-treatment approach when needed

    Because TMJ dysfunction can have more than one contributing factor, Dr. Gause’s treatment isn’t limited to a single fix. We combine a night guard with bite therapy, and Botox where appropriate, for a plan tailored to what’s actually driving your specific symptoms.

    Custom-fitted, not generic

    Unlike an over-the-counter night guard, a custom appliance fabricated from a digital scan of your own teeth fits precisely, which affects both comfort and effectiveness. A poorly fitting guard can fail to protect your teeth or even worsen jaw strain.

    Improved sleep quality

    For patients whose clenching or grinding disrupts sleep—their own or a partner’s—a properly fitted night guard can noticeably reduce nighttime disturbances.

    Protects investment in cosmetic and restorative work

    For patients who’ve had veneers, crowns, or other restorative treatment, an unaddressed grinding habit can shorten the lifespan of that work considerably. A night guard is often recommended specifically to protect that investment.

    When to Seek TMJ Treatment

    It’s best to have your bite and jaw joint evaluated if you’re:

    Waking up with jaw soreness

    Headaches

    Noticing new or worsening wear on your teeth

    Hearing clicking and popping when you open and close your mouth

    An individualized consultation is the most reliable way to understand what is possible. We welcome questions, and we offer imaging to analyze your jaw and its position.

    Schedule Online

    About the Doctor

    Specializing in dental implants and clear aligner treatment, Dr. Gause is a distinguished graduate of the Kois Center in Seattle, where he received advanced training in comprehensive oral rehabilitation. He is also a Key Opinion Leader for Dentsply Sirona SureSmile aligners and is a sought-after national lecturer on dental implantology and digital implant workflows.

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    Find a More Comfortable Path Forward for TMJ Symptoms

    Don’t let chronic pain or grinding cause daily pain. Your TMJ can be addressed with the help of our highly skilled dentist. Schedule a consultation at our office or schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Gause today to discuss TMJ treatment options.

    Schedule Appointment

    – TMJ Treatment