TMJ Treatment in Arlington, VA
Jaw pain can disrupt even the simplest parts of life. Whether you’re struggling to chew or waking up with tension around your jaw, these symptoms can make each day more difficult. Fortunately, effective TMJ treatment is available right here in Arlington, VA. At Cusumano and Stuver, we focus on clear, supportive care to help you manage symptoms and return to a pain-free daily routine.
We understand how stressful and frustrating temporomandibular joint dysfunction can be. That’s why we take a calm, personalized approach—putting your comfort and long-term health first.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing you to talk, eat, and yawn. You have one joint on each side of your jaw, and when either becomes irritated or misaligned, it may cause a condition called TMJ disorder. This issue affects both the jaw joint and the surrounding facial muscles.
Common symptoms include:
These symptoms can vary from mild to severe. In many cases, they develop slowly. Other times, they follow an injury or a period of stress. Regardless of the cause, TMJ symptoms can have a lasting impact if left untreated. If you have ongoing jaw pain, limited movement, or clicking in your jaw, it’s time to visit your Arlington dentist. Early treatment can prevent further damage and lead to better long-term results.
Causes of Jaw Joint Pain
TMJ disorder doesn’t come from just one source. Instead, it often results from a combination of physical or behavioral factors. Understanding the root of your discomfort is key to guiding treatment in the right direction.
Some common causes include:
In certain cases, poor posture or habits like nail biting can also add strain to the temporomandibular joint over time. That’s why our team conducts a thorough evaluation before beginning treatment—we want to fully understand what’s contributing to your pain.
Personalized TMJ Treatment at Our Arlington, VA, Office
At Cusumano and Stuver, our approach to TMJ care is personalized and evidence-based. After assessing the severity of your temporomandibular joint dysfunction, we develop a treatment plan designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent further joint stress.
1
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps reduce muscle tension and improve the range of motion in the jaw. Targeted exercises stretch and strengthen the facial muscles while addressing issues like stiffness and limited mobility.
2
Custom Oral Appliances
Custom oral appliances, often worn at night, reduce pressure on the jaw joint. They can help prevent clenching or grinding and are especially useful when misalignment of the teeth is contributing to TMJ symptoms.
3
Botox for TMJ Relief
Our team is trained in the use of Botox as a therapeutic treatment for TMJ-related pain, jaw tension, headaches, and migraines. Botox can be an effective, non-surgical option to help relax muscles, reduce discomfort, and improve your quality of life.
4
TMJ Arthroscopy
TMJ arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine or treat the jaw joint. It can remove inflamed tissue or correct minor joint issues using small instruments, offering relief without open surgery.
5
Surgery
Surgery is considered when other methods don’t provide adequate relief. This may include bone grafts and joint repair, reshaping, or, in severe cases, joint replacement. We recommend surgery only after other treatments have been fully explored.
Patients' Favorite Things About Our TMJ Care
Our patients tell us they appreciate our approach because:
- We treat you like family, not just another case of TMJ disorder
- We take time to explain everything in plain English – no confusing medical jargon
- Your treatment plan is designed specifically for you and your symptoms
- We focus on long-term relief, not quick fixes that don’t last
- We’re specially trained to offer therapeutic Botox as part of your personalized treatment plan
- Our team stays on top of the latest advances in treating temporomandibular joint dysfunction
Living with jaw pain or TMJ-related headaches can really put a damper on life’s simple pleasures—enjoying a good meal, laughing with friends, or even just getting through your day without discomfort. We don’t think you should have to live that way.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief
Living with TMJ disorder doesn’t need to be your norm. With the right treatment, you can move, eat, speak, and rest without constant discomfort.
Here at Cusumano and Stuver, we guide each patient toward relief with compassionate, informed care. If jaw pain is a part of your daily life, we’re ready to help you change that—starting today.
Contact us to start your TMJ treatment in Arlington, VA, today.
