Jaw pain can hinder basic daily tasks, including chewing, speaking, sleeping, and concentrating. When the temporomandibular joint becomes strained or misaligned, the tension spreads into the jaw muscles, teeth, temples, and sometimes the neck or shoulder area. At Rifkin Raanan Beverly Hills Cosmetic Dentistry, TMJ treatment focuses on restoring healthy jaw movement, not just masking discomfort.
Dr. Robert Rifkin and Dr. Rodney Raanan bring a deep understanding of treating TMJ disorders. They identify the exact cause of the TMJ symptoms—teeth grinding, an imbalanced bite, stress habits, poor posture, or strain on the jaw joint—and create a personalized treatment plan designed to improve jaw function and help patients find lasting relief.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, a hinge that connects the lower jaw to the skull. These joints guide every movement of the mouth and are constantly in use. They are also delicate. When they’re overworked by teeth grinding, misalignment, or tension from stress, the surrounding jaw muscles tighten and inflammation forms within the joint.
A temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can lead to:
Some patients notice symptoms only when chewing, while others feel constant pressure throughout the day. Left untreated, TMJ pain can affect overall quality of life, disrupting sleep, concentration, and basic comfort.
TMJ treatment focuses on reducing stress in the joint and allowing the jaw muscles to rest. At Rifkin Raanan, the doctors take a conservative approach using non-invasive techniques. They begin with a thorough evaluation to identify the forces that are stressing the joint: clenching, nighttime grinding, misaligned bite, excessive gum chewing, or posture habits that place strain on the head and neck.
Treatment may include a custom TMJ appliance to stabilize the jaw and protect natural teeth from grinding. In addition, oral medications such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants may be incorporated when jaw muscles are reactive or overstimulated. Some patients benefit from stress management techniques that reduce subconscious clenching.
The goal is to reduce inflammation, restore natural jaw movement, protect the teeth from damage, and allow the joint to heal so that pain no longer controls daily life.
TMJ treatment can relieve tension and restore healthy function. Patients often report better sleep, reduced facial pain, and easier movement of the jaw.
Benefits include:
You may be a candidate if you are experiencing jaw pain, frequent headaches, popping sounds when moving your jaw, or discomfort while chewing. Some patients experience tenderness beneath the ears or along the temples. Others notice that the jaw gets stuck or that opening the mouth becomes difficult.
TMJ symptoms are often caused by repetitive strain on the joint—clenching during sleep, daytime grinding, or bite imbalance. Stress, screen posture, and even sleep apnea can intensify symptoms. Many patients do not realize that their headaches, facial pain, and tension come from the jaw joint itself.
Most patients qualify for treatment because the approach is non-invasive and protects the joint from further strain. There is no surgery and no need for a small needle or procedural sedation. Patients simply want to find relief and return to a comfortable, pain-free life.
The visit begins with a comprehensive clinical exam. The doctors analyze jaw movement, muscle tension, bite alignment, and wear patterns on the teeth that indicate grinding. They observe how the lower jaw interacts with the skull during motion and look for signs of inflammation or temporomandibular joint disorder.
Nothing is required to prepare for your consultation. Patients simply describe their symptoms: when the pain occurs, what movements trigger it, how long the discomfort has been present, and what has helped or worsened the condition in the past.
During the consultation, the doctors explain TMJ treatment options, what causes the pain, and what type of appliance or supportive techniques would be most effective. Patients walk out with a clear plan, not a generic lecture.
TMJ treatment typically involves a custom TMJ appliance. After digital impressions are taken, the appliance is fabricated to match your bite precisely. It reduces the load on the joint and prevents repetitive grinding that inflames the area.
Unlike over-the-counter mouth guards, the appliance guides the lower jaw into a healthier position. This alignment helps the joint rest and reduces tension in surrounding muscles. Wearing the appliance nightly allows the joint to heal while protecting the enamel from wear.
For some patients, the personalized plan may include stretching exercises, oral medications, or short-term use of physical therapy techniques to stabilize motion and improve comfort.
No surgery, no injections, no downtime, just effective treatment designed to alleviate pain and restore healthy function.
There is no “recovery” from TMJ treatment because the process is non-invasive. Patients continue their daily routine, work, speaking, and chewing without interruption.
Relief often begins in the first week as inflammation decreases and nighttime clenching reduces. With consistent use of the appliance, headaches lessen, the jaw feels less reactive, and patients experience a more comfortable bite. Many patients report improved sleep and the ability to wake without pain for the first time in years.
Follow-up visits monitor progress and ensure the treatment continues to improve jaw function and protect your natural teeth.
Costs vary depending on the treatment plan and the complexity of the condition. During your consultation, the doctors will discuss pricing, insurance participation, and available payment options. TMJ treatment is always customized—no two plans are identical—and pricing reflects the level of personalization and precision involved.
TMJ disorders are complex. They involve the joint, the muscles, the bite, and the teeth working together. Dr. Rifkin and Dr. Raanan are leaders in both cosmetic dentistry and precision TMJ treatment. Patients come to the Beverly Hills area because the practice offers meticulous evaluation and a non-invasive plan that prioritizes comfort and longevity.
Their philosophy: treat the TMJ without unnecessary surgery. Protect the enamel. Improve function. Restore comfort. Let patients return to a comfortable life free from jaw pain.
You don’t have to live with jaw pain or daily discomfort. If your symptoms are affecting how you eat, sleep, or concentrate, it’s time to explore a solution that restores function and improves your quality of life. Call (310) 205-5300 to schedule your consultation today.
Jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement, ear pain, or difficulty opening the mouth. Some patients wake up with tension from clenching.
Surgery is rarely needed. At Rifkin Raanan, TMJ treatment is non-invasive and focused on correcting the source of strain through appliances and supportive therapies.
Yes. A custom TMJ appliance protects teeth from grinding while reducing pressure on the joint and muscles.
Many patients notice improvement within the first week as the jaw muscles relax and inflammation decreases.
Absolutely. TMJ disorders are a common cause of morning headaches and tension around the ears and temples.
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Call Now (310) 205-5300 / Book an AppointmentCome in for a consultation and find out all about the best cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills. Let Rifkin Raanan help you Own Your Smile™