Jaw joint visits
The joint in front of your ear can click, catch or tire. This visit is for adults who notice it. A dentist can check the teeth and bite and talk through options; the cause is not always in the mouth.
What happens
Usually one visit, with a follow-up if you try a guard.
- 01
Step 1: You describe it
Where it clicks or aches, when you notice it and what makes it better or worse.
- 02
Step 2: She checks the joint and the bite
She feels the joint as you open and close, watches the movement and looks at how your teeth meet.
- 03
Step 3: She suggests next steps
Some people try a softer diet and a rest from gum for a while. Some try a guard. Some are better seen by a physician first.
- 04
Step 4: A follow-up
If you try something, a short visit to see how it went and decide what's next.
If the joint locks open or shut, or the pain follows a blow to the face, tell us when you call.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
Pressing near the joint can be tender. Tell her and she'll stop.
Choices, and what if you wait
You can rest the joint and watch, try a guard, or see someone else. Many joint complaints settle without treatment, and some do not, so we look again if yours persists.
Risks and after-care
A guard can make some joints feel worse. If yours does, stop wearing it and call us the same day.
How it is billed
A written estimate comes first if you are paying without insurance. A receipt follows each visit.
How fees work
Questions about the jaw joint
Is this TMJ treatment?
It is a dental visit about your jaw joint. Dr. Okada checks your teeth and bite and tells you what she sees. She is a general dentist, and she refers you when someone else is the better choice.
Will a guard fix a clicking jaw?
A click is not always a problem, and a guard doesn't promise to change it. She'll say whether she thinks one is worth trying.
Should I see a physician?
If the pain is severe, follows an injury or comes with fever or swelling, yes, and soon.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Haruko Okada, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Florida.