TMJ Treatments in Stillwater, MN

TMJ disorder can be caused by several factors, including teeth grinding or clenching, jaw injury, arthritis affecting the joint, and stress-related muscle tension, though for many patients the exact cause isn’t fully clear. Often it results from a combination of factors rather than just one. Because causes vary so much, treatment is typically tailored to each patient’s specific symptoms and joint or muscle findings. A dental evaluation can help identify likely contributing factors in your case. ​

TMJ disorder is typically diagnosed through a physical exam of the jaw, checking for clicking, popping, tenderness, or limited range of motion, combined with a review of your symptoms and history. Your dentist may also use imaging, such as X-rays or a CT scan, to look more closely at the joint structure. There’s no single definitive test, so diagnosis often relies on a combination of clinical findings. A specialist like Dr. Cody can determine the specific type of TMJ disorder affecting you.

Yes, TMJ disorder can cause ear pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or ringing (tinnitus), since the jaw joint sits directly next to the ear canal and shares some nerve pathways. These symptoms are sometimes mistaken for an ear infection before TMJ disorder is identified as the actual cause. Not everyone with TMJ disorder experiences ear symptoms, and severity varies from person to person. If you have ongoing ear symptoms alongside jaw pain, mention both to your dentist.

Many cases of TMJ disorder improve significantly or resolve with conservative treatment like mouthguards, physical therapy, or injections, but for some patients, it becomes a condition that’s managed over the long term rather than permanently cured. Outcomes depend on the underlying cause, such as arthritis versus muscle tension from grinding. Early treatment generally leads to better outcomes than waiting. Your dentist can give you a more specific outlook after evaluating your particular case.

TMJ treatment coverage can fall under either dental or medical insurance, depending on the plan and specific treatment, which sometimes makes it more confusing than other dental care. Conservative treatments like mouthguards may be covered by dental plans, while some medical plans cover certain diagnostic or muscle-related treatments. Coverage varies significantly, so checking with both your dental and medical insurance before treatment is worthwhile. Lift Dental’s team can help you understand what’s typically involved in seeking reimbursement.

Most TMJ disorder cases are successfully managed with non-surgical treatments like mouthguards, physical therapy, or injections, and surgery is generally considered only when conservative options haven’t relieved symptoms after an extended period. Surgical options range from minimally invasive procedures to more involved joint surgery, reserved for specific structural problems. Because surgery carries a greater risk and longer recovery time, it’s typically a later step rather than a first-line approach. Your dentist can refer you to a specialist if your case doesn’t improve with conservative care.

Many patients notice some improvement in jaw pain or teeth-grinding symptoms within a few weeks of consistently wearing a custom mouthguard, though full benefits can take longer depending on the severity of the underlying issue. Consistent use of the mouthguard as directed makes a significant difference in results. Some patients need adjustments to the mouthguard as symptoms change over time. Your dentist will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Lift Dental, led by Dr. Sara Cody, treats jaw joint and muscle disorders for patients in Stillwater, MN and the surrounding St. Croix Valley, including Bayport and Lake Elmo. The office is located at 124 2nd Street S in downtown Stillwater. Call 651-439-4945 or book online to schedule a TMJ evaluation.