TMJ Treatment in Cape Coral, FL

TMJ Treatment From a Prosthodontist in Cape Coral

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) sit on either side of your jaw, just in front of your ears. They connect your lower jaw to your skull and let you chew, talk and yawn. When these joints or the muscles around them are strained, you may notice jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, or trouble opening your mouth fully. Dentists often call these problems TMD, or temporomandibular disorders.

Dr. Larry Dunford, DDS, has practiced as a prosthodontist in Southwest Florida since 1986. Jaw joint problems (TMD) are one of the areas prosthodontists are trained to manage, because so much of TMJ comfort depends on how the teeth come together. Dr. Dunford is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists, and patients from Cape Coral, Fort Myers and the surrounding area come to our Del Prado Boulevard office for TMJ care.

Common Signs of a TMJ Disorder

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw, especially near the ears
• Clicking, popping or grating sounds when you open, close or chew
• Headaches, earaches or sore facial muscles, often worse in the morning
• Trouble opening wide, or a jaw that feels stuck or locks
• A bite that suddenly feels different or uneven
• Worn, chipped or cracked teeth from clenching or grinding

Having one of these symptoms does not always mean you have a TMJ disorder, which is why a proper evaluation matters.

What Can Cause TMJ Problems?

TMJ symptoms rarely have a single cause. Common contributors include clenching or grinding your teeth, muscle tension from stress, a bite that has changed because of worn, missing or broken teeth, older dental work that no longer fits your bite, an injury to the jaw, and arthritis in the joint. Understanding which factors apply to you shapes the treatment plan.

How We Evaluate Jaw Pain

TMJ problems and teeth grinding (bruxism) can feel similar, but they are different conditions and are treated differently. Your visit starts with a careful assessment of your jaw joints, the muscles that move your jaw, how far and how smoothly you can open, how your teeth meet, and any signs of clenching or wear. We also review your dental and medical history. If your symptoms point to something outside the mouth, we will tell you and help you find the right next step.

Custom TMJ Splints

The first phase of TMJ treatment typically uses a custom oral appliance, often called a splint. Unlike a soft night guard, a TMJ splint is made of rigid acrylic. It is designed to raise the bite slightly and guide the jaw into a position that helps relieve pressure on the joints and the discomfort that comes with it.

Because a TMJ splint has to fit precisely, Dr. Dunford may make several small adjustments over follow-up visits until the jaw position feels right. Your splint is custom-made to fit your own teeth rather than a standard size.

TMJ Splint or Night Guard?

A night guard used for teeth grinding acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, so the teeth wear against the guard instead of each other. A TMJ splint works differently: it repositions the jaw to take strain off the joints. Some patients need one, some need the other. Dr. Dunford will explain which fits your symptoms. You can learn more on our mouth guards and night guards page.

When the Bite Itself Needs Attention

Worn, missing or broken teeth can change how your jaw closes. When that is part of the picture, restoring the bite with crowns, bridges or a full mouth reconstruction may be discussed once your symptoms are under control. Any restorative plan is explained in advance, so you can decide what is right for you.

Caring for Your Jaw at Home

Alongside professional treatment, small habits can help your jaw rest: choose softer foods during flare-ups, cut food into smaller pieces, avoid chewing gum, try not to open extremely wide when yawning, and notice whether you clench your teeth during the day. Wear your splint exactly as directed and bring it to every follow-up visit.

Payment Options and Scheduling

We accept CareCredit, a health care credit card that can be used for dental expenses. Call our office to ask about insurance and payment options for your visit. To schedule a TMJ evaluation, call (239) 542-3141 or request an appointment online.