By Dr. Tom Meyer and Dr. Ellie Meyer, Meyer Dental Group, Mount Prospect, IL
If you wake up with headaches, experience jaw pain, or find it difficult to chew comfortably, you might be dealing with TMJ disorder or TMD. And if you’ve been living with these symptoms for months—or even years—you’re not alone. Many people suffer in silence, assuming that jaw pain is something they just have to "live with." But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
As a dental practice that specializes in TMJ treatment, we’ve seen firsthand how this condition affects not only the mouth and jaw but the entire body. What’s worse, many people underestimate how serious untreated TMJ issues can become. The good news? Relief is possible! TMJ treatment works, and at Meyer Dental Group, we take a comprehensive, integrative approach to help our patients get their lives back.
Let’s talk about what TMJ disorder is, the symptoms, the risks of ignoring it, and most importantly—how we can help you feel better.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most important joints in your body. It connects your jaw to your skull and allows you to eat, speak, yawn, and move your mouth. When this joint is misaligned or under too much stress, it can cause a range of painful and disruptive symptoms.
Common TMJ symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness – Pain when opening or closing your mouth, or discomfort when chewing.
- Frequent headaches or migraines – TMJ dysfunction is a common but often overlooked cause of chronic headaches.
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw – If your jaw feels stuck or makes noises, it’s a sign of joint instability.
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus) – Many people with TMJ disorder experience unexplained ear problems.
- Neck, shoulder, and facial pain – TMJ issues can cause tension and pain that spreads far beyond the jaw.
- Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) – This not only wears down your teeth but also puts strain on your jaw muscles.
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to take action.
What Happens If TMJ Disorder Is Left Untreated?
Many patients come to us after suffering from TMJ pain for years, not realizing that it’s not just a jaw problem—it’s a whole-body issue.
When TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can lead to:
- Worsening pain – What starts as mild discomfort can turn into severe, chronic pain.
- Tooth damage – Constant clenching and grinding wear down teeth, leading to fractures, sensitivity, and the need for major dental work.
- Nerve problems – TMJ dysfunction can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain that radiates into the head, neck, and shoulders.
- Posture issues – A misaligned jaw can lead to poor posture, neck pain, and even back problems.
- Mental health struggles – Chronic pain is exhausting. It can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression when left unchecked.
The longer you wait, the more complex the problem becomes. But there is hope—TMJ treatment could work for you too.
How We Treat TMJ at Meyer Dental Group
At Meyer Dental Group, we believe in treating the root cause of TMJ pain, not just masking the symptoms. That’s why we take multi-factorial, and customized approach to TMJ treatment.
Step 1: Thorough Evaluation
Your journey to relief starts with an in-depth examination. We use advanced diagnostic tools, including digital imaging and bite analysis, to understand the exact cause of your TMJ issues. Please remember, no two TMJ cases are alike, which is why personalized treatment is key.
Step 2: Custom TMJ Treatment Plan
Once we’ve identified what’s causing your symptoms, we create a tailored treatment plan. This may include:
- Bite Stabilization (Oral Appliance Therapy) – A custom-fitted neuromuscular oral appliance that helps realign the jaw and reduce strain on the TMJ.
- Jaw Therapy – Exercises to retrain the muscles around your jaw, improving function and reducing pain.
- Lifestyle Adjustments – We help you identify habits that contribute to TMJ stress, such as posture, diet, and even sleep position.
- Pain Management Techniques – Cold laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, and muscle relaxation techniques can help ease inflammation and discomfort.
Step 3: Long-Term Support
Through Neuromuscular Dentistry we focus on optimizing your bite and jaw position to relieve tension and restore balance. This can be done through functional orthodontics and/or restorative dentistry. TMJ treatment isn’t just about quick fixes—it’s about lasting relief. We work with you to ensure your jaw stays in proper alignment and your symptoms don’t return.
Imagine a Life Without TMJ Pain
If you’ve been suffering from TMJ disorder, you might have forgotten what it feels like to wake up pain-free. You deserve to enjoy meals without discomfort, to sleep peacefully through the night, and to go through your day without tension headaches dragging you down.
You don’t have to live with this pain. You don’t have to push through it. There is a solution, and we’re here to help you find it.
At Meyer Dental Group, we take TMJ treatment seriously because we know how much it affects every aspect of your life.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Pain-Free Life
We understand how frustrating it is to struggle with TMJ symptoms. That’s why our team is dedicated to helping you find real, lasting relief—without unnecessary surgery or medications.
If TMJ pain is holding you back, let’s change that. Schedule a consultation with us today, and let’s work together to bring balance back to your jaw—and your life.
You deserve to feel good again. Let’s get you feeling better—make an appointment today!
Dr. Tom Meyer / Dr. Ellie Meyer
Meyer Dental Group
Mount Prospect
