At Kingston Dental Care in St. Louis, we see firsthand how disruptive TMJ disorders can be. Jaw pain, facial tension, headaches, and difficulty chewing don’t just cause discomfort, they interfere with your ability to eat, speak, sleep, and focus.
Our team provides personalized TMJ evaluation and treatment for patients across St. Louis and nearby communities, with a clear goal: lasting relief and better day‑to‑day comfort.
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joints, which are the two joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. These joints are responsible for allowing your jaw to open, close, and move side to side. Because they are used constantly for speaking, chewing, yawning, and swallowing, they are particularly susceptible to strain and dysfunction.
When the joint itself, the surrounding muscles, or the alignment of the teeth are not working together properly, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, often referred to as TMJ.
TMJ disorders can affect people of all ages and may develop gradually or suddenly depending on the underlying cause.
TMJ disorders are rarely caused by a single issue. In most cases, symptoms develop due to a combination of factors that place excess strain on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. At our St. Louis dental office, we commonly see TMJ problems related to teeth grinding or clenching, jaw injuries, arthritis, bite misalignment, and ongoing stress.
Grinding or clenching the teeth, especially during sleep, can overload the jaw joints and muscles. Past trauma to the jaw or face may affect how the joint moves. Arthritis can cause inflammation and degeneration within the joint itself. Bite problems may force the jaw into an unnatural position, while chronic stress often leads to muscle tension that worsens symptoms.
Identifying what is driving your discomfort allows us to design treatment that addresses the root cause rather than just masking symptoms.
TMJ disorders can present in many different ways, and symptoms may range from mild to severe. Some patients experience symptoms intermittently, while others deal with ongoing discomfort. Common signs of TMJ disorders include:
Jaw pain or tenderness, especially when chewing or speaking. Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when opening or closing the mouth. Limited jaw movement or a feeling that the jaw is locking in place. Frequent headaches or migraines, particularly around the temples. Ear pain, pressure, or ringing in the ears without signs of an ear infection. Facial, neck, or shoulder pain caused by muscle tension.
Because TMJ symptoms often overlap with other conditions, such as sinus issues or ear problems, a professional evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can allow the condition to worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent chronic pain, reduce damage to the teeth and jaw joints, and improve overall comfort.
Addressing TMJ issues promptly may also reduce headaches, improve sleep quality, and decrease the need for long-term pain medication.
If you are experiencing persistent jaw discomfort or related symptoms, seeking care from an experienced St. Louis dentist can make a meaningful difference.
Kingston Dental Care is proud to serve patients throughout St. Louis and nearby neighborhoods. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, individualized care using modern diagnostic tools and proven treatment approaches. We take the time to understand your concerns and work with you to find solutions that fit your needs.
If you are searching for TMJ treatment in St. Louis or a dentist who understands jaw pain and related symptoms, our practice offers the experience and personalized attention you deserve.
Many TMJ disorders are best evaluated by a dentist with experience in jaw function and bite alignment. At Kingston Dental Care, we routinely assess and treat TMJ conditions and can coordinate care with other providers if necessary.
Some mild TMJ symptoms may improve with rest and lifestyle changes, but ongoing or worsening pain should not be ignored. Without proper evaluation, TMJ disorders can become chronic and more difficult to treat.
For many patients, a custom-made night guard is highly effective. Unlike over-the-counter guards, a professionally designed appliance fits precisely and helps reduce stress on the jaw joints while protecting the teeth.
Treatment timelines vary depending on the severity and cause of the disorder. Some patients experience improvement within weeks, while others may require longer-term management. Our goal is steady, measurable progress toward lasting relief.
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Our team is happy to review your benefits and help you understand what portions of TMJ evaluation and treatment may be covered.
Jaw pain does not have to be part of your everyday life. Contact Kingston Dental Care to schedule a TMJ evaluation and learn more about your treatment options. Our St. Louis dental team is here to help you restore comfort, improve jaw function, and protect your long-term oral health.
Dr. Logan Smith, D.D.S, is now a part of the Kingston team. Learn more about his background and education here.
We look forward to meeting you. Call (314) 487-0052 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.
