Clear Answers and Smarter Care From a TMJ Dental Specialist

Woman experiencing jaw pain and TMJ symptoms seeking a dental specialist in Washington, DC

Jaw popping and pain from TMJ disorder affect nearly every area of your life. Being in nearly constant pain is already bad enough by itself. But it also causes things like headaches and neck pain, which can make you reluctant even to try to have the active life you’d love. Drs. Erick Hosaka and Valerie Cassis at Health 360 Dental in Chevy Chase, Maryland, have TMJ treatment that doesn’t involve invasive procedures.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located below your earlobes and connect your skull to your jaw. When someone has problems with the TMJ, it’s referred to as TMJ disorder (TMD).

TMJ disorder causes jaw pain and discomfort that have a huge impact on your quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?

Here are some of the more common symptoms of TMJ disorder.

Jaw pain or soreness
Stiffness or limited movement in the jaw
Painful clicking or popping noises
Headaches
Harder to chew food without pain
Jaw locks up
Pain in your face or neck
Changes in how your teeth come together

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New Patients: (301) 686-5255 | Existing Patients: (301) 657-2225
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What Causes TMJ Symptoms like Jaw Popping and Pain?

There’s not one single cause. It’s different for everyone. It may be a past jaw injury, or arthritis can also cause TMJ disorder. Chewing a lot of gum can stress the TMJ. Grinding your teeth at night (called bruxism) does the same thing.

Genetics may play a role for some people. And stress never makes anything better, including TMJ disorder.

Why Is It Important to Get TMJ Disorder Treated?

Most TMJ symptoms don’t get better on their own. If you’ve got pain that seldom goes away or limits the movement of your jaw, it can affect your personal life and how you function at work. Interfering with your sleep is also an issue, and that has far-reaching effects.

What Are the TMJ Disorder Treatment Options at Your Office?

The team evaluates you and works to figure out exactly what is stressing your jaw. The goal is to deal with the source of your TMJ disorder. Not just the pain. Treatment can include:

Oral appliance therapy
Physical therapy
Adjustments to your lifestyle

Lifestyle adjustments may include cutting back on chewing gum. Eating softer foods as needed can also help. Heat packs and cold packs can provide relief for some people. Stress reduction activities like meditation and mindful breathing have been known to help with TMJ symptoms.

What Are the Benefits of Using an Oral Appliance for TMJ Disorder?

Oral appliances are sometimes called occlusal splints or bite guards. They fit over your teeth to protect them from grinding and jaw-clenching habits. The appliance is designed to fit properly over your bite.

Who Is a Reputable TMJ Dental Specialist Near Me in Washington, DC?

Drs. Erick Hosaka and Valerie Cassis have TMJ Disorder Solutions at Health 360 Dental. Contact the team today at (301) 686-5255. They’ll get you set up with a consultation at 5530 Wisconsin Ave #525, Chevy Chase, MD 20815.

Dr. Erick Hosaka, DDS, MBA, FAGD

Dr. Erick Hosaka is a fourth-generation dentist with over 28 years of experience in Chevy Chase. He holds an MBA from Johns Hopkins University and is a Fellow of the American Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Hosaka's commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as a Top Dentist by Washingtonian Magazine and Bethesda Magazine. He is known for his expertise and patient-centered care. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his daughter and watching the Ravens.

Dr. Valerie Cassis, DMD

Dr. Valerie Cassis is a compassionate and skilled dentist who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine. She further honed her expertise through a General Practice Residency at Abington Memorial Hospital near Philadelphia. Now proudly serving the Bethesda community, Dr. Cassis is dedicated to providing personalized care to her patients. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new restaurants, crocheting, drawing, and spending time with her beloved cat, Amelia.