Find TMJ Treatment in Santa Barbara, CA, today!

If you are waking up with a headache each day or dealing with sore shoulders or a locked jaw, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. Whole Health Dentistry can help you find relief with holistic TMJ treatment from our office in Santa Barbara, CA.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the hinge joint on your jaw. It allows you to make the precise movements needed to chew and speak each day. Certain issues with your oral health, like dental crowding and bite alignment, or habits like poor oral posture, frequent gum chewing, and bruxism, can add a lot of stress to the joint.

Symptoms of TMJ issues can include:

  • Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
  • Painful or tender jaw
  • Headaches and neck pain
  • Popping and cracking in your jaw

Without identifying the cause of your TMJ issues, the symptoms will only get worse over time. Dr. Copeland and the team at Whole Health Dentistry can help you diagnose your TMJ issues and form a holistic treatment plan to address your unique circumstances.

Treating TMJ issues

TMJ treatment depends on the root cause of the issue. Tongue and mouth exercises that improve your oral posture and develop your facial muscles can improve your symptoms, or you may need orthodontics to allow your teeth to rest together optimally. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also help you relax your face throughout the day and reduce your overall stress. You may find relief for your symptoms with a custom-fitted oral nightguard that can provide cushion for your teeth and jaw if you clench and grind at night. Dr. Copeland can also guide your diet to ensure you are getting the proper nutrition to support your oral health.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to any dental issues, and Dr. Copeland is committed to getting to know each patient so she can provide the best treatment plan for their oral health and their overall wellbeing. Text our office in Santa Barbara, CA, today at +1 (855) 441-0001 to learn more about our biological dentistry services and get the support you need for TMJ problems.