Conservative TMJ Care
Limited TMJ Splint Therapy for Conservative Care
Elm Ridge provides limited TMJ care focused on splint therapy and conservative treatment for night-time clenching and grinding.
Who It Helps
A splint may help when symptoms are connected to clenching, grinding, muscle soreness, tooth wear, or bite-related stress.
The Elm Ridge Approach
Once deemed appropriate treatment, Elm Ridge will take impressions and fabricate a custom designed splint, or "night guard", that will help prevent TMJ pain and increased tooth breakage and wear from nighttime clenching and grinding, or "bruxism".
Though fairly common, a frequent cause of nighttime "bruxism" is sleep apnea. Learn more about sleep apnea.
Why conservative care comes first
TMJ symptoms can have many causes. Conservative approaches are usually best to try before surgery or irreversible treatment.
What a splint can and cannot do
A splint may protect teeth and reduce overload from clenching or grinding. It is not a cure-all for every jaw joint problem, headache, or facial pain condition.
When referral may be needed
Advanced joint disease, complex pain, locking, trauma, neurologic symptoms, or symptoms that do not fit a conservative dental pattern may require specialty or medical referral.
When to Call
Call if you notice yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, waking up with headaches or jaw/muscle pain, worn or chipped teeth, or intermittent tooth pain with biting pressure.
Insurance and Payment
Coverage depends on your plan, diagnosis, and treatment details. We can estimate benefits, but final payment is determined by the insurance company.
Dentists Who May Help
Related Questions Patients Ask
Related Care
Ready for the next step? Call 254-699-4127 or request an appointment. For urgent dental problems, call instead of using the form.
Common Questions
Elm Ridge starts with an exam, appropriate imaging, and a conversation about your symptoms and goals before recommending treatment.
We can estimate benefits, but final payment is determined by the insurance company. Coverage depends on your employer, plan, diagnosis, and remaining benefits.
Call 254-699-4127 or use the appointment request page. Online scheduling is an appointment request, not guaranteed real-time booking.
Ready to talk through your options?
Elm Ridge will explain what is happening, what choices are realistic, and what makes sense for your mouth.