Experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing? Lebanon Dental Studio offers specialized TMJ disorder diagnosis and treatment to relieve discomfort and restore normal jaw function.
TMJ Disorder Services in Lebanon:
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint or the muscles around it become dysfunctional, it can cause a range of symptoms that many patients do not immediately associate with a dental problem:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, especially when chewing
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide or the jaw locking in position
- Chronic headaches, particularly in the temples or behind the eyes
- Ear pain or ringing without an ear infection
- Facial pain or fatigue, especially in the morning
- Neck and shoulder tension
Stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, misaligned bite, and arthritis can all contribute to TMJ disorder. In Lebanon, the combination of daily commuting stress on the Metn Highway and economic pressures has led to a noticeable increase in jaw clenching and bruxism cases.
Treatment Options at Lebanon Dental Studio
Dr. Rita Kanbar takes a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment, starting with accurate diagnosis and progressing through the least invasive effective treatments:
- Bite analysis and clinical evaluation — identifying the root cause through examination, imaging, and assessment of your bite alignment.
- Custom occlusal splints (night guards) — precision-fitted mouthguards that protect your teeth from grinding and reposition the jaw to relieve pressure on the joint.
- Therapeutic Botox referral — for severe bruxism cases that may benefit from therapeutic Botox in the masseter muscles, Dr. Rita coordinates a referral to the plastic surgeon at our partner clinic C.Metric in Dbayeh. This treatment is not performed at the Jal el Dib clinic and is not performed by Dr. Rita.
- Bite adjustment (equilibration) — selective reshaping of tooth surfaces to correct bite imbalances contributing to TMJ strain.
- Jaw exercises and lifestyle guidance — physical therapy exercises and stress management techniques to complement clinical treatment.
TMJ Treatment FAQ
Can TMJ disorder cause headaches?
Yes. TMJ-related headaches are one of the most common symptoms and are often misdiagnosed as tension headaches or migraines. If you have recurring headaches combined with jaw pain, clicking, or morning facial fatigue, TMJ disorder may be the cause.
Does Botox work for jaw clenching?
Yes. Botox in the masseter muscles is highly effective for reducing jaw clenching and teeth grinding. It relaxes the muscle, reduces force, and provides significant pain relief. As a bonus, it can also slim an overdeveloped jawline. Therapeutic Botox is not performed by Dr. Rita Kanbar and is not offered at the Jal el Dib clinic. For patients who would benefit, Dr. Rita can refer to the plastic surgeon at our partner clinic C.Metric in Dbayeh, who performs all Botox and filler treatments there.
How long does a night guard last?
A custom-made night guard from our clinic typically lasts 3 to 5 years depending on the severity of your grinding. Over-the-counter guards are less durable and less effective because they are not custom-fitted to your bite.
What causes TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder can be caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, arthritis, stress, misaligned bite, or injury. A thorough examination at Lebanon Dental Studio can identify the specific cause and guide treatment.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance in Lebanon?
Coverage varies by plan. Many insurance providers in Lebanon cover diagnostic consultations and occlusal splints. Contact our team for assistance with insurance inquiries.