TMJ Treatment and Joint Analysis in Philadelphia, PA
If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort, headaches, or clicking when you chew, your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) could be under stress. At Smiles At The Square, Dr. Kirti Chopra offers comprehensive TMJ treatment and joint analysis to uncover the root cause of your symptoms and provide long-term, minimally invasive relief. Your TMJ connects your jaw to your skull and plays a vital role in speaking, chewing, and even breathing. When this joint becomes strained or misaligned, it can affect your comfort, function, and quality of life.
Signs You May Have TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ disorders (also known as TMD) can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw
- Headaches, especially in the temples or behind the eyes
- Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully
- Facial soreness or tension, especially upon waking
- Worn or flattened teeth from clenching or grinding
If you notice these signs—especially paired with stress, a history of bite issues, or recent dental trauma—it may be time for a joint and bite evaluation.
What to Expect from a Joint Analysis
Dr. Chopra uses a combination of digital imaging, bite assessments, and muscle palpation to evaluate your TMJ function. She’ll look at how your teeth come together, how your jaw moves, and how your muscles and joints respond to pressure.
This diagnostic process allows her to:
- Identify the specific source of discomfort
- Detect signs of bite imbalance or clenching
- Assess wear on teeth and restorations
- Rule out systemic or referred pain sources
- Recommend tailored, non-surgical treatment options
This exam is often part of your New Patient Comprehensive Exam or requested during a targeted consultation.
Our TMJ Treatment Options
We focus on conservative, non-surgical solutions that relieve discomfort, reduce inflammation, and restore bite harmony. Your treatment plan may include:
• Custom Nightguards or Occlusal Splints
Designed to prevent grinding (bruxism) and reduce pressure on your jaw joint during sleep.
• Bite Adjustment (Equilibration)
Subtle reshaping of tooth surfaces to improve bite alignment and eliminate trigger points.
• Invisalign for Bite Correction
Invisalign can be used to realign teeth and correct functional imbalance contributing to TMJ stress.
• Lifestyle and Muscle Therapy Guidance
We’ll offer tips for stress management, jaw exercises, and posture awareness to support muscle health.
• Referral to a Specialist (if needed)
In rare cases of advanced joint damage or chronic dysfunction, we may coordinate care with a trusted TMJ or orofacial pain specialist.
Protect Your Smile—and Your Comfort
Untreated TMJ disorders can lead to chronic pain, broken restorations, and long-term wear on your teeth. They can also interfere with other treatments like veneers, implants, or full mouth rehabilitation.
That’s why Dr. Chopra emphasizes early intervention and personalized care—so you can prevent damage before it starts and feel better fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common signs include clicking or popping in the jaw, pain when chewing, headaches, facial soreness, or difficulty opening your mouth fully. A proper evaluation with Dr. Chopra can confirm if your symptoms are TMJ-related.
A custom nightguard can significantly reduce tension and protect your teeth from grinding, but it’s often just one part of a broader treatment plan that may include bite adjustments or TMJ therapy.
Yes. Invisalign can improve bite alignment, which may reduce stress on the TMJ over time. Dr. Chopra will assess if orthodontic treatment is appropriate as part of your care.
In most cases, no. We focus on conservative, non-surgical solutions first. Surgery is reserved for severe joint damage or cases that don’t respond to other treatments.
It depends on your plan. Some medical and dental insurances cover parts of TMJ therapy. Our team will help you navigate your benefits and provide clear estimates before treatment begins.
Schedule a TMJ Evaluation Today
Jaw pain isn’t something you have to live with. Call (215) 545-4024 or book your consultation online with Dr. Kirti Chopra at Smiles At The Square in Philadelphia.