TMJ/TMD Treatment in Oceanside, CA – Relief for Jaw Pain, Headaches & Grinding

TMJ Treatment

young man experiencing TMJ

A smarter, gentler approach to jaw pain

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can cause jaw clicking or popping, headaches, facial pain, teeth grinding, wear, and limited opening. These issues affect the jaw joints, muscles, bite, and even the neck and shoulders.
At Dentistry 2000, our dentists evaluate the full system—head, neck, jaw, and teeth—to find the cause of your symptoms and create a plan for lasting relief. (Note: The ADA doesn’t designate a “TMJ specialist” category; TMJ/TMD care is provided by trained dentists like Dr. Assadian and his team.)

What Is TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull. When the joints or surrounding muscles are strained or out of balance, you may feel pain, stiffness, or noises (clicking/popping) with movement.

Common Signs & Symptoms

    Headaches, jaw/facial pain, or pressure around the ears

    Clicking, popping, or grinding noises in the jaw joints

    Clenching or grinding (bruxism) with tooth wear or fractures

    Locking or restricted jaw movement

    Neck/shoulder tension; sinus-like pressure

Our Diagnostic Approach

    Detailed history and exam of the jaw joints, muscles, bite, and range of motion

    Digital X-rays/intraoral photos as indicated

    Assessment of bite balance and parafunctional habits (daytime clenching, sleep grinding)

    Personalized plan focused on stability and symptom relief

Personalized Treatment Options

Our goal is durable improvement—not temporary fixes. Depending on your exam, your plan may include:

    TMJ night guard (occlusal splint): Custom appliance to reduce clenching/grinding forces and protect teeth.
    Bite adjustment (equilibration): Minor reshaping or selective build-ups to balance contact and reduce joint/muscle strain.
    Behavioral & home care: Habit coaching, jaw relaxation, heat/ice guidance, and soft-diet periods during flare-ups.
    Adjunctive care as needed: Short-term anti-inflammatories per your physician, and referrals to PT/ENT/oral surgery for complex cases.
    For patients with severe TMJ disorders, we use the Gemini PBM (photobiomodulation) system to deliver non-invasive light-based therapy that reduces pain, improves circulation, and eases inflammation.

TMJ Night Guard

A removable, custom guard worn during sleep limits clenching and protects enamel—helping reduce morning jaw soreness, headaches, and further tooth wear.

Bite Correction

When the bite overloads certain teeth or joints, precise adjustments—or conservative build-ups—can redistribute forces for a more stable, comfortable jaw position.

“TMJ/TMD care starts with understanding the whole system—joints, muscles, and bite. When we find the source of overload and correct it, patients often feel meaningful relief quickly, with better long-term stability.”

Dr. A.R. Assadian

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Schedule Your TMJ Consultation in Oceanside, CA

Ready to Love Your Smile Again?

Call (760) 945-7000 to schedule your TMJ evaluation at Dentistry 2000.