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TMJ Treatment in Murfreesboro, TN
Custom Night Guards for Jaw Pain, Grinding & Clenching
If you wake up with headaches, sore jaw muscles, or notice yourself clenching your teeth during the day, you may be experiencing TMJ disorder — a common condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. At Starbody Dental, we offer personalized TMJ treatment in Murfreesboro using custom night guards and a whole-patient approach to relieve pain and protect your smile.
We don’t just treat symptoms — we listen carefully, identify root causes, and create a solution that works for your comfort and long-term health.
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What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint — the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull on either side of your face. TMJ disorder (or TMD) occurs when this joint becomes strained, inflamed, or misaligned, often due to grinding, clenching, or bite imbalances.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning or evening
- Headaches, neck pain, or shoulder tension
- Popping, clicking, or locking of the jaw
- Tooth wear or sensitivity
- Difficulty chewing or opening wide
- Facial muscle fatigue or tightness
TMJ issues often develop gradually, and many patients live with discomfort for years before realizing it’s connected to their jaw.
Causes of TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ disorder can have multiple causes — or a combination of factors. These may include:
- Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Daytime clenching due to stress or posture
- Bite misalignment or missing teeth
- Past trauma to the jaw or face
- Arthritis in the jaw joint
- Poor sleep posture or airway issues
Whatever the cause, our goal is to diagnose it accurately and treat it with a conservative, comfortable solution that fits your lifestyle.
Custom Night Guards for TMJ Relief
One of the most effective non-surgical treatments for TMJ disorder is a custom night guard (also called an occlusal splint or bite guard). This small oral appliance is worn while you sleep and helps:
- Reduce strain on the jaw joints and facial muscles
- Prevent teeth grinding and clenching
- Minimize damage to enamel and restorations
- Improve jaw alignment and relaxation
- Reduce morning headaches and muscle soreness
Our night guards are carefully crafted to fit your bite precisely — offering superior comfort, durability, and protection compared to over-the-counter options.
Our Approach to TMJ Treatment
At Starbody Dental, we take the time to understand the full picture. We don’t just hand you a night guard — we evaluate your entire bite, discuss your symptoms, and explore contributing factors like stress, posture, or airway issues.
For some patients, TMJ pain may also be linked to past trauma, missing teeth, or a worn bite — in which case we may explore options like full mouth reconstruction to rebalance the bite and restore function.
And if dental anxiety has made it hard to seek treatment in the past, we offer oral conscious sedation to help you feel relaxed and supported.
Why Choose Starbody Dental for TMJ Care?
- Judgment-free, empathetic care for chronic pain
- Experienced in treating jaw dysfunction and bruxism
- Custom appliances made for comfort and effectiveness
- In-depth evaluation — not a one-size-fits-all approach
- Patient education and support at every step
- Advanced technology and diagnostic tools
- One office for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up
We believe you deserve answers, relief, and a plan that fits your life — and we take the time to deliver it with honesty and care.
Serving Murfreesboro and Surrounding Communities
We proudly provide TMJ treatment to patients from:
- Murfreesboro
- Shelbyville
- Manchester
- McMinnville
- Communities within 30–35 miles
Whether you’ve lived with jaw pain for years or just started noticing symptoms, we’re here to help you find clarity and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Night Guards
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Still have questions?
Will a night guard cure my TMJ?
A custom night guard won’t "cure" TMJ disorder, but it can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent further damage. It’s one of the most effective conservative treatments available.
Is TMJ caused by stress?
Stress can be a contributing factor — especially in patients who clench their jaw during the day or grind their teeth at night. We often explore stress management and lifestyle habits as part of a full treatment plan.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
In some mild cases, TMJ symptoms may resolve with rest and self-care. However, chronic or worsening symptoms typically require professional treatment to prevent long-term damage or increased pain.
What’s the difference between a store-bought and custom night guard?
Store-bought guards are generic and often bulky or uncomfortable. A custom night guard is precisely molded to your teeth and bite, offering far better protection and comfort.
Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?
Some dental plans cover custom night guards as a preventive treatment for bruxism or jaw pain. We’ll help verify your benefits and offer flexible financing if needed.
What if I can’t wear a night guard?
We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits. For some patients, alternative treatments may be needed, including bite adjustments, physical therapy referrals, or restorative options.
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