TMJ & TMD Therapy
Jaw pain, clicking, and grinding treated conservatively.
Why TMJ is complicated
TMD (temporomandibular disorder) is a cluster of conditions affecting the jaw joints, muscles, and bite. It is often mistreated because clinicians jump to aggressive interventions. Our approach is conservative and phased: accurate diagnosis, reversible splint therapy, physical therapy coordination, and only then surgical consultation if needed.
Our diagnostic workup
Diagnosis includes a full clinical exam, bite analysis, CBCT imaging of the joints, and in some cases MRI referral. We identify whether the primary issue is muscular, articular, or occlusal. Many patients have been misdiagnosed. Our goal is the correct diagnosis, not the fastest one.
Custom splint therapy
For most cases, a custom-fabricated splint is the first line of treatment. Splints reduce muscle strain, protect teeth from grinding, and in many cases resolve symptoms within 2 to 3 months. We fabricate splints in-house to the specific pattern of your bite and adjust them over several follow-up visits.
When we refer out
A small percentage of cases need physical therapy, medical imaging, or oral surgery. We have working relationships with three PTs in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and two oral surgeons who handle advanced cases. We coordinate the care directly, not just hand you a phone number.
The details other practices skip.
- 1.Phased, conservative approach with surgery as a last resort
- 2.In-house CBCT and T-Scan diagnostics
- 3.Coordinated referrals with vetted PTs and oral surgeons
What the full timeline looks like.
Diagnostic workup
75 minutes. Clinical exam, imaging, and written diagnosis.
Splint delivery
45 minutes. Custom splint fitted. Wear protocol reviewed.
Adjustment and monitoring
30 minutes each, 2 to 4 weeks apart. Splint adjusted to changing symptoms.
Review at 3 and 6 months
Symptom tracking and long-term protocol decisions.
What your fee actually includes.
CBCT joint imaging
Detailed 3D imaging of the TMJ for accurate diagnosis.
T-Scan digital bite analysis
Identifies timing and force of tooth contact for splint calibration.
How it plays out in practice.
Situation · Chronic morning headaches, right-side jaw clicking, and audible grinding at night per partner.
Outcome · Bruxism diagnosis with mild joint inflammation. Splint therapy plus short-term PT. Symptoms resolved in 10 weeks.
Do I need surgery for TMJ?
Very rarely. Fewer than 5 percent of our TMJ cases need surgical consultation. Conservative splint therapy and physical therapy resolve the vast majority of symptoms.
Is a splint the same as a night guard?
No. Night guards protect teeth from grinding. Splints are therapeutic devices that reposition the jaw and reduce joint and muscle strain. A good splint is custom-calibrated and adjusted over multiple visits. A generic night guard is neither.
Talk to us about tmj & tmd therapy.
Complimentary consultation. One hour with a clinical director, imaging, and a written treatment plan.