Jaw pain, headaches, or a clicking/popping jaw shouldn’t run your life. At our TMJ Treatment dental office in Columbia, SC we offer a clear, step‑by‑step plan to diagnose your TMJ concerns and help you find lasting comfort—without guesswork.

Who We Help

Adults 35+—most often women—who present with jaw pain, clicking/popping, headaches, and neck discomfort. Most patients are local, with a handful traveling from the region. Some arrive well‑informed; others only suspect their jaw may be part of the problem. Wherever you’re starting, we’ll meet you there and build a plan.

Signs & Symptoms of TMJ (TMD)

If two or more of these sound familiar, an evaluation can help clarify your next steps. Symptoms often ebb and flow, so even “good days” can still point to an underlying joint or muscle imbalance.

  • Jaw pain or soreness
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Clicking or popping in the jaw
  • Neck and shoulder discomfort
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Facial muscle tightness or fatigue
  • Difficulty chewing or limited opening
  • Ear fullness or ringing
  • Tenderness in the temples or along the jawline

What Can Cause TMJ Problems?

TMJ disorders are typically multi‑factorial. For many people, a combination of muscle overuse (clenching/grinding), joint strain, prior dental work, bite disharmony, posture, or stress plays a role. Sometimes pain seems to “bounce” between the head, neck, and jaw, which is why a careful exam is important. Our goal is to identify the patterns that apply to you and target them with conservative, stepwise care.

Our Diagnostic Approach

We focus on accuracy so your treatment matches your condition. Your visit is designed to answer two questions: What is driving your symptoms? And what is the most conservative way to bring you relief?

  • Doctor evaluation and comprehensive history
  • Palpation of key muscles and assessment of range of motion
  • Shimbashi measurements to evaluate vertical dimension and bite relationships
  • Joint sound assessment (clicking/popping/crepitus) and functional checks
  • Imaging when indicated (e.g., CBCT of the jaw joints)
  • Review of findings in plain language, including likely contributors and the recommended next step

Your Treatment Pathway

Care is delivered in phases, so you know what happens and when. We begin with the least invasive options likely to help and only move forward as needed.

Phase I — Orthotic (MORA) Stabilization

A custom orthotic is designed to guide your jaw into a more comfortable, stable position. You’ll receive instructions for wear, cleaning, and follow‑up visits so we can make precise adjustments based on your progress. Many patients notice early changes as we fine‑tune the orthotic over the first several weeks; timelines vary depending on your starting condition and consistency with wear.

Phase II — Long‑Term Stability (When Indicated)

Once you’re consistently comfortable, long‑term options may include orthodontics and/or restorative dentistry (FMR) to maintain the improved position. We’ll discuss candidacy, timing, and alternatives, and coordinate care if other providers are involved.

Lifestyle & Home Support

Simple daily habits can help calm irritated joints and overworked muscles while your orthotic does its job.

  • Soft‑food choices during flare‑ups; avoid very chewy or crunchy foods
  • Heat or cold as recommended for muscle relief
  • Awareness of clenching; cues to relax the jaw (“lips together, teeth apart”)
  • Gentle stretching or self‑massage techniques as instructed
  • Sleep posture tips and stress‑management strategies

Costs, Coverage & Payments

We believe in clarity up front so you can plan confidently.

  • Average investment for Phase I typically starts around $3,500; your fee depends on findings and case complexity.
  • We can submit to dental insurance and, in select cases, to medical; coverage is limited and varies by plan. We’ll let you know what your benefits review shows before you begin.
  • Many patients use HSA/FSA funds or a payment plan for predictable monthly budgeting. We’ll review options with you at your consultation.

Bottom line: No surprises. You’ll receive a written plan with visit timing and fees before treatment starts.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

You’ll leave with answers and a plan—not more guesswork.

  • Conversation about your symptoms, triggers, and goals
  • TMJ and bite exam with measurements and functional checks
  • Imaging if indicated (we only recommend it when it will change care)
  • Recommendations, timeline, and fees, with your questions answered

Before Your Visit (Helpful Prep)

Bring a short list of your top symptoms, current medications, and any prior mouthguards or TMJ appliances. If you have recent imaging, let us know. A three‑day symptom log can help us spot patterns.

FAQs

Coverage for TMJ appliances is limited. We’ll check your dental benefits and advise if any medical filing is appropriate. Many patients choose payment plans or HSA/FSA funds for predictability.

Some patients feel early improvement as we adjust the orthotic; others need a little more time. We’ll set expectations based on your findings and schedule follow‑ups to fine‑tune your fit.

Your plan is individualized, but consistent wear is important for the device to do its job. We’ll give you clear instructions at delivery and review them at each visit.

A traditional guard is designed to protect teeth; a therapeutic TMJ orthotic is designed to guide jaw position and muscle function. If you’ve used a guard, bring it so we can evaluate it.

Not everyone needs advanced imaging. We recommend CBCT or other studies only when findings suggest it will change your diagnosis or treatment plan.

Jaw joints and chewing muscles share nerve pathways with nearby areas, so ear fullness and neck discomfort can occur. Part of our exam is ruling in or out jaw‑related contributors and coordinating care if needed.

Many patients resolve symptoms with Phase I alone. If long‑term stabilization is needed, we’ll discuss options—sometimes orthodontics or restorative care—based on your goals and the health of your teeth and joints.

When collaboration will help you, we’re happy to coordinate care. We’ll share findings and outline how each provider’s role supports your progress.

Ready to Talk?

Fill out the form below to tell us about your symptoms and request a TMJ Consultation. Our team will reach out to schedule and outline the next steps.

Prefer to call? (803) 781-9090

I want a TMJ Consulation

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