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TMJ Treatment in Tulsa, OK

Tulsa TMJ Treatment Specialist

If you’re experiencing chronic jaw pain, headaches, clicking when you chew, or tension in your neck and shoulders, it could be more than stress — it might be a TMJ disorder. At Braces by Dr. C, we provide advanced, non-surgical treatment options to help Tulsa patients find lasting relief from TMJ-related symptoms.

Our orthodontic team has experience diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders (also known as TMD), offering personalized solutions designed to improve comfort, function, and quality of life. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, we’ll help you get the answers — and the relief — you deserve.

What Is TMD/TMJ and Why Does It Happen?

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint — the hinge that connects your jaw to the sides of your skull. When something goes wrong with the function or alignment of this joint, it can lead to a condition called TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder).

Common causes of TMJ/TMD include:

  • Jaw misalignment or bite issues
  • Chronic teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Stress-related muscle tension
  • Injury to the jaw or head
  • Arthritis or joint inflammation
  • Genetics or developmental conditions

While some patients experience occasional jaw clicking with no pain, others suffer from daily discomfort, migraines, earaches, and limited jaw movement. TMJ disorders can significantly affect your ability to eat, speak, and rest — which is why treatment matters.

How Do We Diagnose TMD?

At Braces by Dr. C, diagnosis starts with a detailed consultation. We’ll listen to your symptoms, ask about your medical and dental history, and perform a clinical evaluation of your bite, jaw movement, and facial muscles.

We may also use imaging (like panoramic X-rays or CBCT scans) to better understand joint structure and rule out underlying issues.

Signs we look for during diagnosis include:

  • Popping, clicking, or grinding sounds
  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Limited range of motion
  • Headaches or neck pain
  • Uneven bite or shifting teeth
  • Signs of grinding on the teeth or enamel

Once we understand the cause and severity of your symptoms, we’ll recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Types of TMJ Treatment We Offer

The right TMJ treatment depends on what’s causing your symptoms. At Braces by Dr. C, we offer a variety of non-invasive, effective options to relieve discomfort and improve function — without the need for surgery.

Our TMJ treatment options include:

  • Custom night guards — These protect the teeth from grinding and relieve pressure on the jaw joint while you sleep.
  • Orthodontic treatment — Braces or Invisalign can correct bite misalignment, which is often a root cause of TMJ pain.
  • Bite balancing/occlusal adjustments — We may adjust how your teeth come together to reduce strain on your TMJ.
  • Jaw exercises and lifestyle coaching — Guidance on posture, stress management, and habits like nail biting or chewing ice can make a big difference.
  • Collaborative care — In complex cases, we may refer you to or work with a specialist in oral surgery or physical therapy.

Every case is different, and our goal is to offer the most effective, least invasive treatment possible to help you feel better — fast.

Cost of TMD/TMJ Treatment in Tulsa, OK

TMJ treatment is highly personalized, so costs can vary depending on the approach needed. At Braces by Dr. C, we prioritize affordable, accessible care for every patient.

Typical TMJ treatment costs in Tulsa range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether night guards, orthodontic care, or additional therapies are involved.

We make treatment affordable with:

  • 0% interest financing
  • Custom payment plans
  • Low initial payments
  • Help navigating dental insurance coverage
  • No-pressure consultations

Benefits of TMD/TMJ Treatment at Braces by Dr. C

Our TMJ care goes beyond symptom relief — we’re focused on long-term comfort and total wellness. Here’s what you can expect from treatment with our Tulsa team:

  • Personalized care — No one-size-fits-all plans. We tailor every treatment to your specific symptoms and goals.
  • Advanced diagnostics — We use the latest tools to understand your condition and treat it accurately.
  • Non-invasive solutions — We focus on conservative options to help you avoid surgery whenever possible.
  • Orthodontic expertise — If your bite is contributing to TMJ, we have the tools and experience to correct it safely.
  • Supportive environment — We listen, educate, and empower you to take control of your health and comfort.

Our goal is not just to help you feel better — it’s to keep you that way.

Who Benefits Most from TMD/TMJ Treatment?

TMD affects people of all ages and backgrounds — but treatment is especially helpful for those who:

  • Wake up with jaw pain or headaches
  • Hear clicking or popping when eating or talking
  • Struggle to open or close their mouth fully
  • Grind or clench their teeth, especially at night
  • Have tried medications or home remedies without lasting relief
  • Notice their bite feels “off” or their teeth are shifting

If any of these sound familiar, you may be a great candidate for TMJ treatment at Braces by Dr. C.

Life During and After TMD Treatment

Most TMJ treatments begin to provide relief within a few weeks — especially if you’re using a custom night guard or undergoing orthodontic treatment. You may notice:

  • Less jaw tension
  • Fewer headaches
  • Easier chewing and speaking
  • More restful sleep
  • Better bite balance

We’ll check in regularly and adjust your plan as needed to ensure you’re getting the best possible results. Long term, you’ll not only feel better — you’ll enjoy a healthier smile and improved quality of life.

Why Choose Braces by Dr. C?

Tulsa residents trust us for more than braces — they trust us to help them live pain-free, smile confidently, and feel empowered about their oral health.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Over 30 years of experience — Dr. Clendenen and Dr. Abraham bring deep expertise in jaw function, bite alignment, and facial balance.
  • Compassionate care — We take your concerns seriously and treat you like family.
  • Convenient locations — Visit us in Tulsa or Bartlesville.
  • Flexible scheduling and financing — Relief shouldn’t have to wait.
  • Bilingual team — We proudly serve both English and Spanish-speaking patients.

If jaw pain is holding you back, we’re here to help you move forward — comfortably and confidently. Contact us today for a free consultation!

TMD/TMJ FAQs for Tulsa Residents

What’s the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to the condition that affects how the joint functions.

Is TMJ treatment painful?
No — most treatments are non-invasive and designed to reduce pain, not cause it. Night guards and orthodontic adjustments are gentle and effective.

Can braces really help with TMJ?
Yes. If your jaw pain is linked to a misaligned bite, orthodontic treatment can reduce pressure on the joint and significantly improve symptoms.

Do I need surgery for TMJ?
In most cases, no. Conservative, non-surgical treatments are effective for the majority of TMJ patients we see.

Will insurance cover TMJ treatment?
Some dental insurance plans cover parts of TMJ treatment. Our team can help check your benefits and explain coverage clearly.