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Discover Effective TMJ Treatment

One of the most common causes of TMJ disorders is a misalignment of your bite, which places excessive stress on the joints. At Grand River Dental, our dentists can detect minute irregularities in your bite that may be causing this condition – and correct them with TMJ treatment in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

What is TMJ?

Your temporomandibular joints are like hinges that connect your jawbone to your skull. When your jawbone is not perfectly aligned, it causes that joint to become weakened and inflamed, which causes a wide range of symptoms:

  • Pain and tenderness throughout your jaw
  • Pain localized to one or both of your temporomandibular joints
  • Ear pain
  • Weakness and difficulty chewing
  • Pain throughout your face, head, and neck
  • Joint locking, making it hard to open or close your mouth
  • Clicking noises when opening or closing your mouth

Many primary physicians struggle to identify the cause of these symptoms, as the misalignment of your jaw can be minor and difficult to detect without a comprehensive dental evaluation.

Am I a candidate for TMJ treatment in Wisconsin?

Candidates for TMJ treatment are suffering from one, some or all of the following:

  • jaw pain and discomfort
  • limited jaw mobility 
  • facial pain
  • dull headaches 
  • earaches 
  • worn teeth
  • grinding of the teeth 
  • inability to chew certain foods
  • clicking jaw
  • locking of the jaw

    Woman holding her jaw while suffering from tmj

    What are the treatment options for TMJ?

    Each TMJ treatment in La Crosse WI is customized based on the underlying causes of your pain and discomfort. In minor cases, you may be able to alleviate the condition with at-home remedies such as mouth guards or jaw-strengthening exercises.

    If your condition is more severe, our dentist will address look at what is causing the problem and may employ one of two effective options to correct it:

    • Teeth replacement or correction to fix a misaligned bite
    • Surgical correction of your temporomandibular joint and jaw to realign your jaw and correct the condition
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    What Causes TMJ?

    The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint that connects your jaw to the base of your skull. This complicated joint is made up of a series of muscles, ligaments and bones that allow your jaw to move. When the temporomandibular joint is damaged, inflamed, or suffering from injury, it can lead to pain, or discomfort, in the area. This pain is commonly referred to as TMJ.

    While TMJ can be caused by a variety of factors, some of the most common causes are:

    • Physical injury to the jaw or temporomandibular joints
    • Teeth grinding during sleep 
    • Jaw clenching during sleep
    • Arthritis, or other inflammatory disorders 
    • Stress
    • Poor posture
    • Misaligned bite
    • Excessive gum chewing

    While it is sometimes difficult to determine the exact cause of TMJ, all of these factors put stress on the temporomandibular joints, which over time can lead to more pain and discomfort. At Grand River Dental, our dentists specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ in Wisconsin, looking closely for bite irregularities that may be contributing to the issue and helping correct them. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

    TMJ vs. Other Causes of Jaw Pain

    Jaw pain can be frustrating—and figuring out what's causing it isn't always straightforward. While TMJ disorders are a common culprit, several other conditions can produce similar symptoms. Understanding the difference can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment faster.

    TMJ Disorder

    TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction occurs when the joint connecting your jaw to your skull becomes inflamed, misaligned, or stressed. This can be caused by bite misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, or even injury. Over time, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic discomfort and impact everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even sleeping. Symptoms typically include:

    • Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth
    • Jaw stiffness or locking
    • Pain while chewing or speaking
    • Frequent headaches or facial soreness
    • Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

    Other Common Causes of Jaw Pain

    • Dental Issues: Tooth infections, abscesses, or impacted wisdom teeth can cause localized jaw pain—often sharp, throbbing, or sensitive to pressure and temperature near the affected tooth.
    • Sinus Infections: The sinuses sit close to the upper jaw. When inflamed, they can create pressure or aching in the jaw and teeth, often with nasal congestion and facial tenderness.
    • Trauma or Injury: A blow to the jaw, whiplash, or strain from grinding or excessive chewing can cause temporary pain or inflammation, which may or may not involve the TMJ.
    • Nerve-Related Pain: Conditions like trigeminal neuralgia can mimic TMJ symptoms but usually involve sudden, sharp facial pain triggered by light touch or daily activities like brushing teeth.

    Full-mouth reconstruction

    One of the most effective ways to correct TMJ in Wisconsin is to undergo full-mouth reconstruction. This comprehensive treatment addresses every tooth, the relationship between your teeth and your jaw, and your jaw itself. Full-mouth reconstruction offers a wide range of benefits, including:

    • Relief from the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ
    • Bright, healthy, and natural-looking teeth
    • Results that can last a lifetime

    At Grand River Dental in Wisconsin, our father-daughter team of dentists, Dr. Leo Malin and Dr. Rachel Malin, perform minimally invasive full-mouth reconstruction with highly advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. The procedures involve very little pain, and we offer the revolutionary and drug-free NuCalm® deep relaxation system for added comfort and relief from anxiety.

    Why choose Grand River Dental for TMJ treatment in Wisconsin?

    If you are considering TMJ treatment in the La Crosse and Onalaska area, you are likely experiencing pain and discomfort and need a lasting solution. Dr. Leo Malin has over three decades of experience and is responsible for developing several advances in modern dentistry. Our dentists are warm, caring, and dedicated to every patient, offering personalized care.  When you arrive at Grand River Dental, you will experience a level of comfort, professionalism, and care that is truly extraordinary. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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    TMJ FAQs

    Can TMJ disorders go away on their own?

    Mild cases of TMJ can sometimes improve with rest, stress reduction, or at-home remedies. However, ongoing or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a dental professional to prevent long-term joint damage.

    Is TMJ related to headaches or migraines?

    Yes. TMJ disorders often cause referred pain, including tension headaches or migraines due to muscle strain and nerve compression in the jaw and surrounding areas.

    Will I need surgery to treat TMJ?

    Surgery is usually a last resort. Most TMJ cases can be managed with non-invasive treatments like bite correction, oral appliances, physical therapy, or full-mouth reconstruction, depending on the cause.

    Can TMJ cause ear problems like ringing or pressure?

    Yes. Because the TMJ is located near the ear canal, inflammation or tension in the joint can lead to symptoms like earaches, tinnitus (ringing), or a feeling of fullness in the ears.

    How long does TMJ treatment take to work?

    It varies by the individual and the severity of the condition. Some patients feel relief within weeks of starting treatment, while others may require a few months for full results, especially if undergoing reconstructive or bite correction procedures.

    Is TMJ more common in women than men?

    Yes. Studies suggest TMJ disorders are more prevalent in women, especially those between the ages of 20 and 40. Hormonal differences, stress, and joint laxity may play a role.

    What foods should I avoid if I have TMJ pain?

    Hard, chewy, or sticky foods can aggravate TMJ symptoms. It’s best to stick to softer foods and avoid excessive chewing (like gum or tough meats) during flare-ups.

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