TMJ/TMD Treatment in Rochelle Park, NJ: Relief for Jaw Pain and Dysfunction

Find effective treatment for TMJ disorders at Perfected Smiles with comprehensive therapy options that address jaw pain and restore normal function.

What Are TMJ Disorders and What Causes Them?

TMJ disorders, also known as TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction), affect the temporomandibular joints that connect your jaw to your skull, as well as the muscles that control jaw movement. These complex joints allow you to speak, chew, and yawn, but when they malfunction, they can cause significant pain and limit your daily activities.

TMJ disorders can result from various factors including jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, misaligned bite, or genetic predisposition. The condition often develops gradually, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that affects your ability to eat, speak, and sleep comfortably.

At Perfected Smiles in Rochelle Park, NJ, Dr. Ryan C. Maher and Dr. Jason Schepis understand the complex nature of TMJ disorders and take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Maher's extensive experience with bite analysis and surgical procedures provides insight into complex cases, while Dr. Schepis's advanced training in facial aesthetics, including BOTOX®, offers additional therapeutic options.

Both doctors recognize that TMJ treatment often requires a multifaceted approach, combining various therapies to address the underlying causes and provide lasting relief. Their combined expertise ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation and symptoms.

Why TMJ Treatment Matters More Than You Think

TMJ disorders can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting not just your jaw but your overall health and well-being. The constant pain and dysfunction can lead to sleep disturbances, nutritional problems from difficulty eating, social isolation, and even depression from chronic discomfort.

The far-reaching effects of untreated TMJ disorders include: • Chronic headaches and migraines that interfere with daily activities • Sleep disruption leading to fatigue and reduced quality of life • Nutritional deficiencies from avoiding foods that are difficult to chew • Increased stress and anxiety from dealing with constant pain • Social withdrawal due to embarrassment about jaw clicking or locking • Progressive joint damage that may require more invasive treatment later

Dr. Maher's comprehensive approach recognizes that TMJ disorders often have multiple contributing factors that must all be addressed for successful treatment. His understanding of bite mechanics and jaw function helps identify underlying causes that might be missed by less experienced practitioners.

Dr. Schepis's focus on patient comfort and his advanced training in BOTOX® therapy provide additional treatment options for muscle-related TMJ pain. Both doctors understand that early intervention typically provides better outcomes and prevents progression to more severe symptoms.

What TMJ Treatment Includes at Perfected Smiles

Your TMJ evaluation begins with Dr. Maher or Dr. Schepis conducting a comprehensive assessment of your jaw joints, bite alignment, and muscle function. Both doctors use advanced diagnostic techniques including digital imaging, bite analysis, and detailed symptom evaluation to identify all contributing factors.

Conservative TMJ treatment typically begins with oral appliance therapy, where custom-fitted night guards or splints help protect your teeth from grinding while repositioning your jaw into a more comfortable position. Both doctors create precisely fitted appliances that address your specific bite and jaw positioning needs.

For muscle-related TMJ pain, Dr. Schepis's training in BOTOX® therapy provides an effective treatment option that relaxes overactive jaw muscles and reduces pain and tension. This non-surgical approach can provide significant relief for patients with muscle-related TMJ symptoms.

Our comprehensive TMJ services include: • Detailed diagnostic evaluation including imaging and bite analysis • Custom oral appliance therapy for bite correction and protection • BOTOX® injections for muscle-related pain and tension • Physical therapy coordination for jaw and neck muscle rehabilitation • Stress management guidance to address contributing lifestyle factors • Ongoing monitoring and adjustment to ensure optimal results

Dr. Maher's surgical expertise provides options for advanced cases that may require joint surgery, while Dr. Schepis's conservative approach helps most patients achieve relief without invasive procedures.

When You Should Seek TMJ Treatment

Early intervention is key for successful TMJ treatment, as chronic dysfunction can lead to progressive joint damage and more complex treatment needs. Dr. Maher and Dr. Schepis encourage patients to seek evaluation as soon as symptoms develop rather than hoping they'll resolve on their own.

Seek TMJ evaluation if you experience: • Jaw pain or tenderness especially when chewing or speaking • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth • Limited jaw opening or difficulty opening your mouth fully • Jaw locking in open or closed position • Frequent headaches especially upon waking • Ear pain or ringing without obvious ear problems • Neck and shoulder tension that seems related to jaw problems

Dr. Maher's experience with complex bite issues helps identify TMJ problems that might be overlooked during routine dental care. Dr. Schepis's long-term relationships with patients allow him to notice changes in jaw function that might indicate developing TMJ disorders.

Contributing factors that increase TMJ risk include: • Teeth grinding or clenching especially during sleep • High stress levels that increase muscle tension • Poor posture that affects neck and jaw alignment • Previous jaw injury from accidents or dental procedures • Arthritis affecting the jaw joints • Misaligned bite from missing teeth or dental problems

Find Relief from TMJ Pain Today

Don't let TMJ disorders control your life and limit your daily activities. At Perfected Smiles in Rochelle Park, Dr. Ryan C. Maher and Dr. Jason Schepis provide comprehensive TMJ treatment that addresses the root causes of your symptoms and provides lasting relief.

Dr. Maher's expertise in bite mechanics and surgical procedures ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning for even complex TMJ cases. Dr. Schepis's advanced training in BOTOX® therapy and focus on patient comfort provides additional treatment options that can significantly improve your symptoms.

Both doctors understand that TMJ treatment often requires patience and may involve trying different approaches to find what works best for your specific situation. They're committed to working with you throughout the treatment process to achieve optimal results and restore your quality of life.

Suffering from jaw pain or TMJ symptoms? Contact Perfected Smiles today to schedule your comprehensive TMJ evaluation and begin your journey toward pain-free jaw function and improved quality of life.

Book Your Consultation