TMJ Treatment in North York
A sore jaw, clicking when you chew or headaches when you wake up can all be linked to the jaw joints and muscles. Most jaw problems improve with simple, conservative care.
TMJ treatment in North York at Emerald Forest Dental starts with an exam of your jaw joints, chewing muscles, teeth and bite. Many people with jaw pain or clicking improve with conservative steps, such as a custom night guard, jaw exercises, stress management and softer foods. Our dentists refer complex cases for further care.
- Typical time
- Exam about 30 to 60 minutes; care often continues over weeks
- Who it's for
- Adults and teens with jaw pain, clicking, locking, clenching or grinding
- Coverage
- Exams are often covered; night guards may be partly covered. Check your plan
- Recovery
- Many people notice gradual improvement over several weeks
About TMJ Treatment
The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jaw to your skull just in front of each ear. Problems with these joints and the muscles around them are often called TMD. Common signs include aching in the jaw or temples, clicking or popping, a jaw that catches or locks, and pain when chewing. Clenching or grinding, stress, injury, arthritis and posture can all play a part. Our dentists assess and treat jaw joint problems here at the clinic.
Your dentist will ask about your symptoms, gently feel the joints and muscles, watch how your jaw opens and check your teeth for wear. X-rays may be taken to rule out tooth problems that can feel like jaw pain. Clicking without pain is common and often does not need treatment.
Research supports starting with simple, reversible care. This may include a custom night guard to reduce the effects of clenching, short-term use of over-the-counter pain relief if your doctor or pharmacist says it is safe, warm or cold packs, gentle stretches and resting the jaw with softer foods. Your dentist will avoid irreversible changes to your bite as a first step. If symptoms do not improve, or there are signs of joint disease, you may be referred to a physician, physiotherapist or another provider for further assessment.
Signs of a jaw joint or muscle problem
- Aching in your jaw, face, temples or in front of your ears
- Clicking, popping or grating when you open or chew
- A jaw that feels stuck or locks open or closed
- Waking up with a tired jaw or headache
- Flattened or worn teeth from clenching or grinding
Benefits
- Starts with gentle, reversible options
- A custom guard can protect teeth from grinding
- Your dentist checks for tooth problems that mimic jaw pain
- Clear referral if you need care beyond the dental office
What to expect
- Talk about your symptomsWe ask when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and about clenching, stress and sleep.
- Jaw and bite examYour dentist checks the joints, chewing muscles, jaw movement and tooth wear.
- Rule out other causesX-rays or other tests may be used to rule out cavities, cracked teeth or infection.
- Start conservative careYou may get a custom night guard, jaw exercises and home care tips.
- Review and refer if neededWe check your progress and arrange a referral if symptoms persist.
Aftercare
- Wear your night guard as directed and bring it to checkups so the fit can be adjusted.
- Rest your jaw by choosing softer foods and avoiding gum, very chewy foods and wide yawns for a while.
- Notice daytime clenching; try to keep your teeth apart and your jaw relaxed, with lips together.
Other options
Some people find physiotherapy, massage or stress management helpful along with dental care. Bite adjustments, orthodontics or surgery are not usually first steps for jaw pain and are only considered after careful assessment. Your dentist will explain which options are evidence-based for your situation.
Cost and coverage
The cost of TMJ care depends on what your exam shows and what is recommended, such as an assessment, X-rays or a custom night guard. Fees are set with reference to the ODA suggested fee guide. Many insurance plans cover exams, and some cover part of a night guard, so check your plan. If you have CDCP coverage, ask our team how it may apply. We will give you an estimate before any appliance is made, and LendCare payment plans can help.
Our promise: we confirm your coverage and explain the cost before treatment.
Your dental team
Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Ye Zhang, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Kasra Badii, DDS
General Dentist
Treatment is provided by our dentists. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari is a registered specialist in periodontics; our other dentists are general dentists. Some complex cases may be referred to a specialist.
TMJ Treatment FAQ
Is jaw clicking something to worry about?
Clicking on its own, without pain or locking, is common and often does not need treatment. If clicking comes with pain, a jaw that catches, or trouble opening, it is worth having your jaw checked.
Will a night guard fix my TMJ?
A custom night guard can help protect your teeth and may ease muscle pain from clenching for many people. It is not a cure for every jaw problem. Your dentist may combine it with exercises and home care.
Can stress cause jaw pain?
Yes. Stress often leads to clenching or grinding, during the day or at night, which tires the jaw muscles. Noticing the habit and finding ways to relax your jaw can make a real difference.
Should I buy a mouth guard from the pharmacy?
Store-bought guards are not made for your bite and some can make clenching worse. A custom guard made from impressions of your teeth is usually more comfortable. Talk to your dentist before using one.
When should I see a doctor instead of a dentist?
See a doctor quickly if jaw pain comes with chest pain, shortness of breath, a recent injury, fever or numbness. Your dentist may also refer you to a physician if your symptoms point to arthritis or another medical cause.
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TMJ Treatment near you
We see patients from across North York and nearby areas, including North York, Don Mills, Parkway Forest, Henry Farm, Willowdale, Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham.
This page is general information and is not a substitute for an exam. Your dentist will recommend what's right for you. Reviewed by: Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS. Last updated 2026-10-26.
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New patients welcome. We'll confirm your coverage before treatment.