Jaw discomfort can affect how you eat, sleep and speak. It can also be hard to describe because symptoms may shift from day to day. At Rebecca Hausten, DDS, we take a careful, respectful approach to TMJ treatment in Wheaton that focuses on comfort, function and your goals.
Dr. Rebecca Hausten and Dr. Rachael Cole begin by listening to what you feel and when you feel it. Our dentists and team then look at how your jaw moves, how your teeth meet and what may be adding stress to the joint and nearby muscles.
Common Signs and Daily Impacts
TMJ concerns can show up in several ways. Some people notice a clicking or popping sound. Others feel tightness that spreads into the cheeks, temples or neck. Symptoms can be mild at first then become harder to ignore during busy weeks or stressful seasons.
You may want an evaluation for TMJ treatment in Wheaton if you notice:
- Soreness when chewing or yawning
- A jaw that feels tired by the end of the day
- Headaches that seem linked to jaw tension
- Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
- Limited opening or a feeling that the jaw “catches”
Even when symptoms come and go, early support can help prevent long-term strain.
Your Evaluation Visit
A TMJ visit should feel organized and reassuring. We will review your health history, discuss your symptoms and ask about habits such as clenching or grinding. We may check jaw range of motion, muscle tenderness and the way your bite guides movement. When modern diagnostic tools or imaging are appropriate, they can help us understand jaw position and function with more detail.
You will also get clear next steps. If your symptoms suggest a condition outside dental care, we will tell you and help you understand what type of provider may be the right fit.
Building a Plan You Can Follow
TMJ treatment in Wheaton, IL, works best when it fits your life. Your plan may focus on reducing strain, improving jaw mechanics and protecting your teeth and joint over time. We will explain what to do at home, what to avoid and how to track progress without overthinking every sensation.
In many cases, TMJ care in Wheaton is designed to support these outcomes:
- Less muscle tension and fewer flare-ups
- Smoother, more comfortable jaw movement
- Reduced wear on teeth related to clenching or grinding
- Better bite balance to lower daily joint stress
- Practical guidance you can use between visits
We also pay attention to comfort during appointments. If you feel anxious, have sensory needs or prefer a slower pace, tell us. Your experience matters and you deserve care that feels safe and respectful.
Support Between Visits
Small daily choices can support healing. We may recommend gentle jaw rest, mindful posture and limiting habits that overwork the joint such as frequent gum chewing or biting hard foods. We also encourage patients to notice patterns, including stress, sleep changes or long screen time, because these factors can affect jaw tension.
Progress is usually gradual. We will check in, adjust recommendations and help you stay focused on function, not perfection.
Schedule a TMJ Evaluation
If jaw discomfort is interrupting your routine, call 630-653-3440 to schedule a visit with our dentists and team to learn more about TMJ treatment in Wheaton, Illinois. You will receive clear answers, a supportive plan and guidance built around your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?
TMJ is the jaw joint. TMD is a term often used for conditions that affect the joint, muscles or movement.
Can stress make jaw symptoms worse?
Yes. Stress can increase muscle tension and clenching, which may add strain to the jaw and surrounding areas.
Is jaw clicking always a problem?
Not always. Clicking without pain or limits may not require care, but an evaluation can confirm what is happening and reduce risk of worsening.
What should I do if my jaw locks or pain suddenly increases?
If you cannot open normally, have swelling, fever or severe pain, seek urgent medical care. If symptoms are uncomfortable but stable, schedule an evaluation soon.
630-653-3440