TMJ & TMD Treatment in Gambrills, MD
Have headaches, jaw pain, or earaches become part of your daily life? You should actually be turning to your dentist for treatment options. Dr. Bruce Auslander helps patients throughout Gambrills, Crofton, Odenton, and Bowie ease TMJ and TMD pain and get back to their normal routine.
The source of these aches and pains is often related to one or both of the temporomandibular joints, commonly called TMJ, with the broader condition referred to as TMD (temporomandibular disorder). Located on each side of the head, these joints work together with a complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones to engineer chewing and speaking functions.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is characterized by the jaw twisting or moving to the side during opening and closing. The condition is linked to arthritis, improper bites, jaw dislocation, injury, and stress. Clenching or grinding teeth, known as bruxism, may aggravate TMJ disorder. Jaw injuries, including those from falls, sports, or auto accidents, can also contribute to TMJ symptoms, sometimes showing up well after the initial injury has healed.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
A litany of symptoms often signal the existence of TMJ disorder. These tend to start with pain in or around the ear, headaches and neck aches, tenderness of the jaw and its muscles, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Jaw pain or soreness is typically most prevalent in the morning or late afternoon, especially when chewing, biting, or yawning. In addition, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth often accompany the pain. Extensive teeth sensitivity with no other causes is also a red flag.
How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, there is not a widely accepted, standardized test to accurately identify TMJ disorder, which makes diagnosis particularly difficult. Normally, patients explain related symptoms to Dr. Auslander, which is followed by a general mouth and jaw exam, sometimes accompanied by x-rays, to rule out other causes and confirm the likely source of your pain.
Do You Need a Dentist or a TMJ Specialist?
This is a fair and common question. Many cases of TMJ disorder can be diagnosed and managed effectively by your general dentist, especially when symptoms are mild to moderate and related to bruxism, bite alignment, or muscle tension. Dr. Auslander will evaluate your symptoms and start with conservative, non-surgical treatment first. For more severe or persistent cases, particularly those related to significant jaw injury or trauma, we’ll refer you to a TMJ specialist or oral surgeon for advanced evaluation and coordinate your care with them.
TMJ Treatment Options
If Dr. Auslander believes you are experiencing TMJ disorder, we will suggest a relevant treatment option. First, we want to help you manage the pain. This can mean resting the joint, taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or applying heat to the painful areas.
A night guard may be prescribed to prevent your teeth from grinding during sleep, which can significantly reduce strain on the joint. Learn more about custom night guards on our Sleep Appliances page. Some types of adjustment, such as orthodontic treatment, may be administered to shift teeth placement and correct poorly aligned teeth. For patients dealing with muscle tension, physical therapy exercises and stress-reduction techniques can also help ease symptoms over time. A combination of these practices is often what leads to real, lasting relief.
Average TMJ Treatment Cost in Gambrills, MD
Cost depends on which treatment approach is right for you. A conservative treatment plan, pain management guidance and a consultation exam, is generally the most affordable starting point, while a custom night guard costs more due to the impression and lab work involved. Based on typical regional and national averages, here’s what patients can generally expect:
| Treatment | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| TMJ Consultation & Exam | $100 – $250 |
| Custom Night Guard / Splint | $400 – $800 |
| Orthodontic Bite Adjustment (if needed) | Varies by case, discussed at consultation |
These are general estimates, not a quote. More complex cases involving imaging, specialized splints, or a longer course of treatment can cost more, and we’ll always walk you through your exact cost before starting anything.
We accept all PPO insurance plans, and many plans offer partial coverage for TMJ-related treatment when it’s medically necessary. Some cases may also be eligible for coverage under medical insurance rather than dental, worth asking about if your treatment plan is more involved. Our team will help verify your benefits. Learn more on our Insurance & Payment page.
Why Choose Dr. Auslander for Your TMJ Treatment
- Serving Gambrills, Crofton, Odenton, and Bowie patients dealing with jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ symptoms
- Conservative, non-surgical treatment tried first whenever appropriate
- Coordinated referrals to a TMJ specialist for more advanced or trauma-related cases
- Walk-ins welcome and same-day appointments available if you’re in pain now
- Accepts all PPO insurance plans, with financing options for treatment not fully covered
Scheduling Your TMJ Evaluation Is Simple
Living with jaw pain, headaches, or clicking isn’t something you have to just manage on your own. Reach out by phone or request an appointment online, and our team will help find a time that works for you.
- Contact Us – Call 301-517-7335 or request an appointment online.
- Get Evaluated – Dr. Auslander reviews your symptoms and performs a mouth and jaw exam, with x-rays if needed.
- Start Feeling Relief – Begin a treatment plan built around your specific symptoms and their cause.
Frequency Ask Questions About TMJ Treatment in Gambrills, MD
Can a dentist actually treat TMJ, or do I need a specialist?
Many cases of TMJ disorder can be diagnosed and managed by your general dentist, especially milder cases related to bruxism or bite alignment. More severe or trauma-related cases may be referred to a TMJ specialist for advanced care.
What’s the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself, while TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to the broader condition affecting that joint. The terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation.
How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?
There’s no single standardized test. Diagnosis usually starts with discussing your symptoms, followed by a mouth and jaw exam, sometimes along with x-rays to rule out other causes.
How much does TMJ treatment cost?
Cost depends on which treatment approach you need. A consultation and exam is typically the most affordable starting point, while a custom night guard costs more due to lab work involved. We’ll give you a clear estimate at your visit.
Can stress cause TMJ disorder?
Yes. Stress is a recognized contributing factor, often through jaw clenching or teeth grinding, both of which put extra strain on the joint and surrounding muscles.
Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?
Coverage varies by plan. We accept all PPO insurance, and many plans offer partial coverage for TMJ-related treatment when it’s medically necessary.
How long does TMJ treatment take to work?
It varies by case. Some patients notice relief within a few weeks of conservative treatment, while others need a longer combination of approaches to see lasting improvement.