TMJ Therapy in Indianapolis
Find Lasting Relief from Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders
If you’re experiencing frequent jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, or facial tension, you may be suffering from TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint dysfunction). At Brauer Family Dentistry, we offer personalized TMJ therapy in Indianapolis to treat the root cause of your symptoms and restore proper jaw function.
Dr. Ted K. Brauer takes a holistic, muscle-and-joint-focused approach to care—helping patients regain comfort, bite balance, and long-term relief from TMJ-related discomfort.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull on both sides of your head. When these joints are inflamed, misaligned, or strained, it can result in TMJ disorder (also called TMD).
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Pain when chewing or speaking
- Earaches or pressure behind the ears
- Worn, chipped, or uneven teeth
TMJ issues can arise from jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), bite irregularities, or muscle tension. Many patients don’t realize that their symptoms are dental-related until they seek an evaluation.
Our Approach to TMJ Therapy
At Brauer Family Dentistry, we believe effective TMJ treatment begins with understanding the unique way your teeth, muscles, and joints work together. Dr. Brauer will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the source of your TMJ dysfunction.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may include:
- Custom Oral Appliances: We may create a custom-fit nightguard or splint to relieve joint pressure and protect your teeth from grinding damage.
- Bite Adjustment: If your bite is contributing to stress on the joint, we may recommend minor reshaping or restorative options like dental crowns or bridges.
- Muscle Relaxation Techniques: We provide conservative methods to reduce muscle tension and inflammation around the jaw.
- Collaborative Care: For complex cases, we coordinate care with medical professionals or specialists when necessary.
Why Choose Us for TMJ Treatment?
Dr. Brauer has extensive training in functional and restorative dentistry, with a focus on the relationship between teeth, muscles, and jaw joints. He takes time to understand the full scope of each patient’s symptoms and creates treatment plans that prioritize comfort and long-term results.
Our Indianapolis office also uses advanced technology, including 3D CT scanning and intraoral cameras, to aid in diagnosing structural or anatomical concerns related to TMJ disorders.
Many of our patients experience relief within weeks of starting therapy and report significant improvements in their daily comfort, sleep quality, and bite function.
TMJ Therapy and Related Services
TMJ therapy often overlaps with other dental treatments that support jaw health and comfort. Depending on your case, we may also recommend:
- Occlusal and sports guards to protect your teeth from clenching and grinding
- Oral sedation to ease anxiety during longer appointments
- Restorative dentistry for structural corrections that support joint alignment
We're committed to helping you achieve a pain-free smile using conservative, non-surgical methods first—backed by experience and precision.
TMJ Therapy FAQs
- How do I know if I have TMJ disorder?: Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth. A dental evaluation can confirm the diagnosis.
- Is TMJ therapy painful?: No, most TMJ treatments are non-invasive and designed to relieve pain, not cause it.
- How long does it take for TMJ therapy to work?: Many patients begin to feel relief within a few weeks of starting therapy, though long-term management may be needed for chronic cases.
- Will I need surgery for TMJ?: In most cases, no. We prioritize conservative treatments and only refer for surgery if all other options are exhausted.
- Can TMJ disorder affect my teeth?: Yes. Chronic grinding or bite misalignment can wear down your teeth, cause fractures, or lead to jaw instability.
Start TMJ Treatment in Indianapolis Today
Don’t let jaw pain or chronic discomfort interfere with your life. At Brauer Family Dentistry, we provide TMJ therapy that’s tailored to your needs—so you can smile, chew, and speak without pain.
