Restorative Dentistry

TMJ / TMD Treatment

Chronic jaw pain, clicking joints, and frequent tension headaches often trace back to the temporomandibular joint — the TMJ. Treatment is conservative, careful, and starts with a good evaluation.

Common signs

Jaw soreness when you wake up, popping or clicking when you open and close your mouth, headaches that come from your temples, ear fullness, and worn-down teeth are classic signs. Stress-related grinding (bruxism) is one common driver.

A starting point that’s comfortable

Most TMJ care begins with a careful exam of your bite and joint, simple home strategies, and often a custom-fitted nightguard that reduces grinding pressure and lets your muscles rest. For many patients, that combination quiets the symptoms within a few weeks.

When more is needed

If symptoms persist, we coordinate with physical therapy, your physician, or a specialist as appropriate. The goal is the smallest, most conservative step that gets you comfortable again.

Find out what’s causing the pain

Call our Pelham Drive office to schedule a TMJ evaluation.

Schedule an Evaluation 540-943-9703

Frequently Asked

Common questions

What are common signs of a TMJ problem?

Jaw pain, headaches around your temples or in front of your ears, jaw clicking or popping, ear ringing, neck and shoulder tension, and a jaw that feels stuck or locks open or closed. If two or three of these sound familiar, ask us about it at your next visit.

How do you treat TMJ pain?

We start with the least invasive options that work: a custom occlusal splint to take pressure off the joint, simple jaw exercises, heat or ice for flare-ups, and stress-reduction strategies. Most patients see real improvement within a few weeks.

Will I need surgery?

Almost certainly not. Surgical TMJ intervention is rare and reserved for severe structural issues that have not responded to conservative care over many months. Most patients never need it.

Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?

Coverage varies — some dental plans cover the splint, some medical plans cover the diagnosis. We will check your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment.

Why patients on Pelham Drive choose Willis Family Dentistry Waynesboro

Dr. Tyler Youn, DDS is calm, unhurried, and trained at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry — and he believes the most important skill in dentistry is listening. Patients across Waynesboro, the 22980 corridor, Stuarts Draft, Fishersville, and Lyndhurst choose Willis Family Dentistry Waynesboro on Pelham Drive because every visit feels like a real conversation, not a sales pitch. We talk about cost up front, accept most major PPO insurance plans, and offer the Virginia Dental Club membership for patients without insurance — so cost is never the reason a smile waits. Open Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm at 101 Pelham Dr, Waynesboro 22980. Call 540-943-9703 or request an appointment online.