TMJ Treatment in Washington, D.C.

Personalized Relief for Jaw Pain, Tension, and Headaches at DentalPolitan

If you’re suffering from jaw discomfort, clicking sounds, facial pain, or chronic headaches, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder, a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. At DentalPolitan, we offer advanced, non-invasive TMJ treatment in Washington, D.C., designed to relieve symptoms, restore proper jaw function, and help you feel like yourself again.

Led by Dr. Priyam Kumar, our team takes a modern, patient-focused approach to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorder, with solutions customized to your lifestyle, jaw anatomy, and pain levels.

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What Is TMJ Disorder?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD or TMJ disorder) is a condition that occurs when the jaw joint becomes misaligned, inflamed, or overworked. This joint plays a critical role in your ability to eat, speak, and move your mouth comfortably. When compromised, it can lead to a wide range of debilitating symptoms, including:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement
  • Limited range of motion or jaw locking
  • Chronic tension headaches or migraines
  • Ear pain or facial pressure
  • Difficulty chewing or speaking

Without treatment, TMJ disorder can worsen over time, affecting your daily function and long-term oral health.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMJ dysfunction may arise from various physical, behavioral, or postural causes. The most common contributing factors include:

  • Bruxism (teeth grinding or jaw clenching)
  • Jaw misalignment or bite imbalance
  • Arthritis or joint degeneration
  • Stress-related muscle tension
  • Trauma or injury to the jaw, head, or neck
  • Postural strain, particularly from forward head or neck posture
  • Repetitive habits like nail biting, gum chewing, or resting the jaw unnaturally

Understanding the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder is essential for developing a treatment plan that provides long-term relief.

TMJ Treatment Options at DentalPolitan

At DentalPolitan, we prioritize non-surgical, conservative TMJ treatments that focus on relieving pain, minimizing joint strain, and improving overall function.

Our custom-fitted TMJ night guards are designed to reduce clenching and grinding during sleep. These appliances cushion the jaw, prevent excessive muscle tension, and promote natural joint alignment, especially for patients with bruxism.

Botox therapy for TMJ is an innovative, minimally invasive solution that targets the overactive jaw muscles responsible for clenching and grinding. When injected into specific areas of the jaw and face, Botox reduces muscle activity, alleviating pain and helping prevent further joint strain. 

Many patients experience relief from:

  • Jaw tension and soreness
  • TMJ-related headaches
  • Facial pain and ear pressure
  • Limited jaw movement

Botox is FDA-approved for certain medical conditions and widely used off-label for TMJ pain relief under experienced clinical guidance.

Benefits of TMJ Treatment

Effective treatment of TMJ disorder can lead to substantial improvements in both comfort and daily function. Benefits include:

  • Reduction or elimination of jaw pain and stiffness
  • Fewer tension headaches and facial aches
  • Improved bite function and jaw movement
  • Better sleep and reduced clenching at night
  • Prevention of joint deterioration and long-term damage
  • Enhanced quality of life and stress reduction

Why Choose DentalPolitan for TMJ Therapy?

As a modern dental practice in Washington, D.C., DentalPolitan offers:

Thorough diagnostic exams using digital imaging and bite analysis

Personalized treatment plans for long-term symptom relief

State-of-the-art therapies, including Botox for TMJ

A relaxing, spa-inspired environment for anxious patients

Expertise in jaw alignment, bite correction, and occlusal stability

Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, Dr. Kumar and her team will work with you to identify the root cause of your TMJ discomfort and guide you toward the most effective solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment

Common early symptoms include jaw clicking, soreness in the morning, headaches, difficulty opening your mouth wide, and tension in the temples or ears.

In mild cases, TMJ symptoms may resolve with stress reduction and temporary bite rest. However, chronic TMJ issues typically require clinical intervention to prevent worsening.

Results from Botox typically last 3–4 months, after which follow-up treatments may be scheduled. Many patients notice a reduction in pain within 3–10 days after the first injection.

Yes. Custom night guards relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joint and can significantly reduce symptoms caused by teeth grinding and misalignment.

Coverage varies depending on your dental or medical plan. Many insurance policies cover night guards, and we will help you verify benefits. Botox for TMJ is typically considered elective, but we offer affordable financing options.

Yes. Poor posture, especially forward head posture, and stress-induced muscle tension can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Managing stress and improving body mechanics can be a key part of your treatment plan.

Get Relief from TMJ Pain in Washington, D.C.

If you’re ready to take control of your jaw pain, headaches, and muscle tension, DentalPolitan is here to help. We specialize in conservative TMJ treatment in Washington, D.C., and offer solutions that fit your lifestyle and wellness goals.

Call or text: 202-991-3737
Email: hello@dentalpolitan.com

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