TMJ Therapy & Headache Relief in Aiea HI

If you experience frequent headaches or ongoing pain in your jaw, face, neck, or shoulders, you may be dealing with TMJ-related symptoms. Many people refer to these issues simply as “TMJ,” but what most people are actually describing is TMD – Temporomandibular Disorder.

TMD occurs when the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles do not function together properly. Although many people live with TMD symptoms, the condition is often misunderstood and can go undiagnosed.

If you believe you may have TMD in Aiea HI, our team at Regala and Su, DDS is here to help you find lasting relief.

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Common Symptoms of TMD in Aiea HI

TMD typically develops over time as strain builds in the jaw muscles and joint. Symptoms may include:

• Pounding or migraine-like headaches
• Jaw, facial, or cheek pain
• Neck or shoulder tension
• Swelling or tightness in the jaw muscles
• Earaches, tooth discomfort, or changes in hearing
• Difficulty fully opening the mouth
• A bite that feels “off” or uncomfortable

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What Causes TMD?

The temporomandibular system includes both the jaw joint and the muscles that help you speak, chew, and move your jaw. When this system is not working in harmony, discomfort can develop.

One common cause of TMD is a misaligned bite, which can place extra strain on the jaw muscles and the joint. When the jaw is not resting or moving in its ideal position, the surrounding muscles must work harder, often leading to tension, pain, and inflammation over time.

Other contributing factors may include clenching, grinding, stress, or past trauma to the jaw area.

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TMJ Treatment Options

TMD treatment often requires the expertise of a dentist who specializes in neuromuscular dentistry—a field focused on how the teeth, muscles, and jaw joint work together.

Your neuromuscular dentist may:

1. Relax the jaw muscles to reduce strain
2. Use advanced technology to measure the jaw’s natural, relaxed position
3. Create a precise model of your optimal bite
4. Develop a customized treatment plan to gently guide your jaw into a healthier, more comfortable alignment

Medication or surgery may relieve symptoms, but long-term improvement usually comes from addressing the underlying imbalance in the jaw and muscle system.

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Long-Term Relief From TMD

TMD therapy aims to correct the cause of your discomfort—not just mask the symptoms. By restoring balance to the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, patients often experience relief from headaches, facial tension, jaw pain, and overall discomfort.