TMJ Therapy in Chicago, IL

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder, or TMD, refers to conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints—the hinge joints connecting your jaw to your skull. These joints work in coordination with muscles, ligaments, and bones to allow you to speak, chew, and yawn. When they become strained, misaligned, or inflamed, painful symptoms can follow.

Common signs of TMJ disorder include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking or popping when opening or closing the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or biting down evenly
• Locking of the jaw in an open or closed position
• Tension headaches or facial soreness
• Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears
• Worn or flattened teeth due to clenching

TMJ dysfunction may be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), bite misalignment, stress, trauma, or arthritis. An accurate diagnosis is key to determining the right treatment.

Our Approach to TMJ Therapy

At Ramy Bahu, DDS, TMJ treatment begins with a detailed evaluation of your bite, jaw movement, and joint health. We use digital imaging and bite analysis to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Depending on your condition, TMJ therapy may involve:

1. Custom Occlusal Splints or Nightguards – These devices reduce pressure on the TMJ by repositioning the jaw and preventing teeth grinding during sleep.
2. Bite Adjustment – Minor reshaping of select teeth to improve how your bite comes together and relieve strain on the joint.
3. Muscle Relaxation Techniques – At-home exercises or professional guidance to relax tense jaw muscles.
4. Referral to Physical Therapy – When appropriate, we may coordinate with specialists to support muscle function and joint alignment.
5. Ongoing Monitoring – TMJ disorders can fluctuate, so we track your progress and adjust treatment as needed.

In many cases, conservative therapy is enough to manage discomfort and prevent progression. Our goal is to restore natural jaw movement and prevent the need for surgery.

Benefits of TMJ Therapy

Prompt treatment of TMJ disorder can significantly improve your daily comfort and protect your long-term oral health. Benefits of our therapy include:

• Reduction or elimination of jaw pain
• Fewer headaches and facial muscle tension
• Prevention of dental damage caused by grinding or clenching
• Improved bite balance and function
• Better sleep quality in patients with nighttime clenching habits

Patients often find that TMJ therapy also complements related services such as bruxism treatment and occlusal mouthguards, providing comprehensive support for jaw health.

Meet Your TMJ Dentist

Dr. Ramy Bahu, D.D.S. has decades of experience diagnosing and treating TMJ dysfunction with a conservative, evidence-based approach. His emphasis on patient comfort, precise diagnostics, and non-invasive care makes him a trusted resource for patients experiencing jaw discomfort throughout downtown Chicago.

Related Services

TMJ symptoms often overlap with or result from other dental conditions. Our team may recommend:

• Bruxism Treatment – To protect your teeth from wear due to clenching and grinding
• Dental Crowns – To rebuild worn teeth that may be affecting your bite alignment
• Dental Cleanings & Exams – To monitor your joint, muscles, and dental health consistently
• Sleep Apnea Treatment – If nighttime jaw tension is related to disordered breathing

These services support a holistic approach to jaw and joint health.