If you’ve been dealing with jaw pain, headaches, ear symptoms, or clicking in your jaw, you’re not alone. These are common signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder—an issue that affects the joints and muscles controlling your jaw. Our practice provides comprehensive dental care in Sacramento, using advanced, non-invasive diagnostic tools such as EMG (electromyography), TENS therapy, and CBCT imaging to help you achieve lasting TMJ relief.
Our goal is to make your first TMJ evaluation informative, comfortable, and empowering. Here’s what to expect when you visit us for a thorough TMJ assessment as part of our commitment to improving your oral health and overall comfort.
Why a TMJ Evaluation Matters
TMJ issues often develop gradually. What starts as occasional popping or tension can lead to headaches, ear pain, or even difficulty opening your mouth. A proper evaluation helps identify the true source of your discomfort—whether it’s muscle overuse, bite imbalance, or joint strain—so we can treat the cause, not just the symptoms.
A complete TMJ evaluation at Miyasaki Dental goes beyond a quick exam. We combine clinical expertise with technology to measure jaw muscle activity, assess bite function, and analyze joint health. This ensures that any recommendations we make are based on objective, measurable data rather than guesswork.
Why Choose A Dentist for TMJ Care
Led by Dr. Michael A. Miyasaki, DDS, and Dr. Yasmine Peterson, DDS, our Sacramento team is known for combining compassionate dental care with advanced dental technology. With decades of experience in comprehensive, minimally invasive dentistry, they provide a patient-centered approach focused on comfort and prevention.
Our TMJ evaluations utilize tools such as TENS, EMG, and CBCT, each providing valuable insights into your jaw’s function and balance. This approach allows us to design a treatment plan that’s truly customized to your needs.
What to Expect at Your First TMJ Evaluation
Your first TMJ visit is relaxed and focused on understanding your symptoms. We’ll talk about how long you’ve been experiencing issues like jaw pain, headaches, or clicking, and then gently examine how your jaw moves. Every part of the visit is explained so you always feel comfortable and informed.
Getting to Know Your Symptoms
We’ll review your medical and dental history, ask about things like clenching, headaches, or jaw stiffness, and look for patterns that may be contributing to your discomfort. If needed, we may take quick digital X-rays or other simple scans to check your jaw and teeth alignment.
Relaxing the Muscles
Before taking any measurements, we may use a soothing muscle relaxation process to help your jaw settle into its natural position. Many patients find this step calming—it helps us get a clearer picture of what’s happening when your jaw is at rest.
Evaluating Jaw and Bite Function
Next, we’ll gently measure how your jaw muscles work and how your teeth come together when you bite. These insights help us see whether your discomfort is related to muscle tension or your bite alignment.
Reviewing Your Results
Before you leave, we’ll review what we found and talk through next steps. You’ll learn what’s causing your symptoms and how we can help—often with simple, comfortable treatments that make a lasting difference in how your jaw feels and functions.
What Your Results May Show—and How We Treat It
No two TMJ cases are the same. That’s why our treatment plans are customized to your individual diagnosis.
If Muscles Are Overworking
When muscle tension or clenching is the main cause, TENS therapy can help break the cycle and restore balance. We’ll also share home strategies, such as relaxation exercises, a soft diet during flare-ups, and posture improvements, to help prevent recurrence.
If Bite Imbalance Contributes
If your symptoms stem from uneven bite forces, a custom orthotic—a precisely made dental appliance—can help align your jaw in a more comfortable position. These orthotics are typically removable and can be adjusted periodically to accommodate your progress.
If Tooth Wear or Missing Teeth Are a Factor
In cases where the bite has collapsed or certain teeth are missing, restorative dentistry may be part of the solution. Rebuilding proper support through crowns, bridges, or implants can help reestablish stability and comfort while protecting your joints in the long term.
At-Home Support Between Visits
Between appointments, small changes can make a big difference in comfort and healing. We’ll provide guidance tailored to your specific findings, but in general, we recommend:
- Eating softer foods and avoiding gum or very chewy items
- Applying moist heat or ice as instructed
- Keeping good posture—especially while working or using devices
- Practicing gentle jaw relaxation techniques
- Prioritizing consistent sleep and stress reduction
These supportive habits help protect your progress and prevent future flare-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many patients have similar concerns about TMJ evaluations, so we’ve gathered some common questions below.
When to Call Sooner
If your jaw locks open or closed, you experience new pain when chewing, or your symptoms worsen suddenly, please call us immediately. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and make treatment easier.
Ready to Get Answers?
TMJ discomfort doesn’t have to control your day. An EMG-guided TMJ evaluation can uncover the real cause of your pain and open the door to lasting relief. At Miyasaki Dental, our providers are committed to helping patients regain comfort and confidence through precise, patient-centered care.
Call us today at (916) 442-8911 to take the first step toward a more comfortable, healthy smile.
