Smiles proudly offers TMJ wellness and TMJ specialist treatment for children and teenagers in Los Angeles. Children’s and teenager’s jaw health plays a key role in their everyday lives and aids in functions like chewing, swallowing, speaking, and yawning. Sometimes, kids and teens live with popping, clicking or even jaw locking thinking that it is normal. Examining the TMJs, evaluating functional mouth-opening and palpating the facial musculature can shed light on symptoms that our young clients may be experiencing and help us formulate a gentle, palliative, and effective treatment plan to ensure their complete comfort and well-being.
TMJ Well-being ·
TMJ Well-being ·
TMJ Well-being ·
TMJ Well-being ·
TMJ Well-being ·
Understanding the TMJ:
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and is the hinge joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. The TMJ consists of bones, muscles, ligaments, and a small disc that cushions the joint to allow smooth jaw movement. Located on each side of the head in front of the ears, the pair of TMJ joints function in synchronized harmony allowing for smooth movements of the lower jaw.
The TMJ joint uniqueness:
- The TMJ combines both a hinge and a sliding motion, making it one of the most complex joints in the body.
- The jaw moving apparatus consists of twin joints with one TMJ present on each side of the lower jaw.
- TMJ joints must function in orchestrated unison to achieve smooth jaw movement.
TMJ Disorders (TMD):
Studies show that temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are common in the pediatric and teen groups and can manifest in three main ways:
- Disorders of the joints, including disc disorders.
- Disorders of the chewing muscles (masticatory muscles).
- Headaches associated with TMD.
Common Signs and Symptoms of TMD:
Causes of TMD in kids and teens:
Smiles’ Gentle approach to TMD management:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: We conduct a detailed assessment of your child’s or teen’s jaw, bite, and overall oral health to identify the cause of their TMD.
- Customized Treatment Plans: We create personalized temporomandibular disorder treatment plans based on your child’s or teen’s unique needs.
- Non-Invasive Methods: We focus on gentle therapies to manage symptoms and offer relief and healing.
- Lifestyle Modifications: We provide guidance on small changes that can reduce TMD symptoms, such as posture correction, diet modifications, and proper hydration.
What to expect during a TMJ wellness visit:
Benefits of Early TMD Treatment in kids and teens:
TMD Treatment options:
Hover or tap to reveal steps
1
First-line treatments for managing TMD in younger patients:
- Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes
- Resting the jaw (avoiding gum chewing, tough foods).
- Practicing proper posture (especially for teens using screens).
- Applying moist heat or cold packs to relieve muscle pain.
- Stress management techniques (breathing exercises, mindfulness).
2
Physical Therapy:
- Jaw and neck stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension.
3
Red-Light Therapy:
- TheraFace Pro by Therabody infrared and red-light therapy
4
Laser Therapy:
- Photobiomodulation with Gemini Laser
- Solea Laser for muscular relaxation
5
Dental and Orthodontic Solutions
- Bite Adjustments and orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners to correct malocclusion.
- Habit Correction: Addressing oral habits like nail-biting, thumb-sucking, or tongue thrusting.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom-made, 3D printed, occlusal splints or night guards to reduce bruxism.
6
Pain Management:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen
- Muscle relaxants for short-term use in severe cases.
7
Advanced Interventions:
- Botox Injections: Temporarily relaxes overactive jaw muscles.
- Trigger Point Injections : For targeted pain relief in the jaw and surrounding muscles.
8
Collaborative care:
We facilitate a team approach and foster collaborations with other practitioners such as pediatricians, ears/nose/throat (ENT) physicians, chiropractors, acupuncturists, myofuncional therapists and oral surgeons to ensure complete wellness for our children and teens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a poor airway cause TMD?
An obstructed airway can significantly contribute to the development or exacerbation of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) due to the interconnected relationship between breathing, posture, muscle function, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Chronic mouth breathing and open-mouth posture can lead to an altering of the jaw position. This creates tension on the joint and surrounding musculature. Early detection of airway issues in children is key to ensure that they are getting proper sleep and good rest. We collaborate with pediatricians and ENT physicians and educate parents about the importance of this collaboration. Sleep studies may be recommended to diagnose or rule out sleep apnea, tonsil, android and airway issues.
How can stress contribute to TMD?
Stress can contribute to muscle tension, jaw clenching/bruxism, poor posture, altered jaw movements, sleep disturbances and oral habits. When we are worried, stress hormones like cortisol are released in our bodies increasing inflammation and pain. New schools and environments, social changes, exams and competitions are all factors that may cause emotional tension for kids and teens. We believe in supporting kids and teens and helping them understand the mind/body relationship and the role that emotions play on our wellbeing.
How long does TMD treatment take?
TMD treatment sessions for children and teens are about thirty minutes long. During the session, we use a combination of laser palliative therapy, red-light therapy and physical therapy. We also educate and empower our young clients to promote self-care at home. Most kids do very well within 3 sessions of treatment. Follow up for orthodontic care or night guards will continue as we see them for routine dental check-ups.
Is TMD treatment comfortable?
Yes! The sessions are calm, spa-like sessions that are palliative and gentle. Kids really enjoy the relaxing music and sensations of the light and physical therapy. We use organic essential oils and all-natural muscle relaxants.
Can TMD go away on its own?
Kids and teens certainly have high healing capabilities, and some TMD cases can be self-limiting. However, symptoms should be addressed. We believe that health is our birthright and that children should be given every opportunity to nurture well-being through gentle guidance to set the stage for a lifetime of wellness.
🦷✨ What if dental anesthesia for children supported comfort through gentle dentistry?
At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, founder Dr. Reem approaches pediatric dental anesthesia as one supportive element within a much larger picture of wellness, trust, and emotional safety. Care begins with education, preparation, and honoring how a child experiences dental visits — not with numbing alone.
In her latest blog, Dr. Reem shares a thoughtful, wellness-centered perspective on dental anesthesia for children, exploring its history, its appropriate role, and why gentle dentistry remains essential for shaping lifelong dental health. Anesthesia serves best when paired with communication, modern technology, and respect for a child’s nervous system. 💛
Through intentional conversations with parents, age-appropriate explanations for children, and carefully chosen comfort tools, Dr. Reem designs dental experiences that protect confidence and reduce anxiety — while supporting health rather than fear.
📖 Read the full blog here:
https://smilesla.com/pediatric-dentistry-orthodontics/dental-anesthesia-in-pediatric-dentistry
💬 We’d love to hear from you.
What has helped your child feel safe and calm at the dentist, or what concerns do you still carry as a parent? Share below.
📞 Looking for a gentle, child-centered dental home?
Our team would love to support your family.
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
Gentle care. Loving guidance. Smiles built on trust.🥰
@nusmile
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#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist
#PediatricDentalCare #DentalAnesthesiaForChildren
#GentlePediatricDentistry #ChildDentalComfort
#WestLosAngelesDentist
🍿🥤 Why can cavities start appearing in the teen years even if they brush? 😬
It’s more common than many families expect.
As teens become more independent, snacking habits often change 🛍️📱. Frequent snacks and sweetened drinks can expose teeth to repeated acid attacks throughout the day. Every sip of soda or bite of candy restarts this acid cycle, which softens enamel for hours ⚡🦷. Over time, this weakens teeth and increases cavity risk, even with regular brushing. Simple swaps can help. Replacing candy with cheese for 30 days 🧀 can lower cavity risk by up to one third by supporting enamel strength and balancing mouth pH. Small changes in daily choices can make a big difference for teen smiles.
Does this sound familiar in your household, or did this surprise you? 💬
We’d love to hear what snacking habits look like for your teen.
Have questions about teen dental care or cavity prevention? 📲
Contact our office and our team will be happy to help guide your family.
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Supportive care, smart habits, and confident smiles through every stage.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #TeenDentalCare #CavityPrevention #HealthySmiles
❓🪥 Why can juice damage your toddler’s teeth faster than candy? 🤔
It catches many parents off guard.
Constant sipping on juice or sweetened drinks can keep sugar on teeth throughout the day 🧃⏳. Unlike candy, which is usually eaten all at once, frequent sipping allows sugars to linger, giving cavity-causing bacteria more time to do harm 🦠. This repeated exposure increases cavity risk, especially for toddlers whose enamel is still developing. Small shifts, like offering water between meals 🚰 and limiting juice, can help protect growing smiles early on.
Was this something you already knew, or is this new information for you? 💭
We love learning what parents are discovering along the way 💛
Have questions about drinks, snacks, or cavity prevention for your toddler? ☎️
Reach out to our office and our team will be happy to help.
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
🌈 Gentle care, everyday guidance, and smiles that grow strong.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #ToddlerTeeth #CavityPrevention #HealthySmiles
🦷 Did you know baby teeth start forming before a child is even born? 🤍
It happens much earlier than most parents realize.
Baby teeth begin developing as early as six weeks into pregnancy 🤰✨. Long before a child’s first smile appears, the foundation for healthy teeth is already forming beneath the surface. This early development is one reason prenatal health, nutrition, and early dental care matter so much. Once baby teeth erupt, they play an important role in chewing, speech development, and guiding permanent teeth into place as children grow 🌱🦷
Did this surprise you, or have you heard this before? 💬
We love sharing facts that help parents understand just how early oral health begins 🤍
Have questions about baby teeth or early dental visits? 📞
Contact our office and our team will be happy to support your child’s smile from the very start 😊
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Gentle care, early guidance, and healthy smiles growing every day.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #BabyTeeth #EarlyDentalCare #HealthySmiles
❗️🦷 Did you know some kids actually grow EXTRA teeth? 😲
Yes, it really happens.
Some children develop what are called supernumerary teeth, which means extra teeth that form in addition to the normal set 🦷➕. These teeth sometimes appear right in the middle of the smile or behind baby teeth, where they can block permanent teeth from coming in properly. When that happens, removing the extra tooth may help guide adult teeth into a healthier, straighter position over time ✨. Early evaluation makes a big difference in planning the best next steps for a growing smile.
Have you ever heard of extra teeth before, or does this surprise you? 💬
We’d love to hear what parents are curious about when it comes to tooth development 🤍
Have questions about your child’s smile or want an evaluation? 📞
Contact our office and our team will be happy to help guide you.
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Gentle care, thoughtful planning, and smiles supported as they grow.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #DentalFunFacts #GrowingSmiles #EarlyDentalCare
❗️🦷 Did you know the very first toothbrush used bristles made from wild boar hair?
A fascinating moment in dental history 📜
The first true toothbrush appeared in China during the 1400s, featuring stiff bristles made from wild boar hair inserted into bamboo or bone handles 🐗🎋. This early design became the foundation for brushing tools used for centuries. In 1938, soft nylon bristles were introduced 🪥, shaping the modern toothbrushes families use today to support healthy smiles worldwide 🌍✨
Did this piece of dental history surprise you, or have you heard it before? 💬 We love sharing facts that help kids and parents connect with oral health in a fun way.
Have questions about toothbrush choices or brushing habits for your child? 📞 Contact our office and our team will be happy to help 😊
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Gentle care, trusted guidance, and smiles shaped through time.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #DentalHistory #HealthySmiles #OralHealthEducation
"❗️🦷 By age five, nearly 60% of children have already had at least one cavity. 😳
That number surprises many parents 👀
Baby teeth have enamel that is about 50% thinner than adult teeth 🦷, which means cavities can spread twice as fast once they begin ⚡. This is why early dental visits and daily habits matter so much during the preschool years ✨. Protecting baby teeth early helps support comfort, development, and healthier smiles as kids grow 🌱
Did this statistic surprise you, or have you heard it before? 💬
We’d love to hear what parents are noticing or wondering about early cavities 🤍
Have questions about cavity prevention or want guidance for your child? 📞
Reach out to our office and our team will be happy to help 😊
📞 Phone: (310) 837-6453
📧 Email: info@smilesla.com
📍 Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Gentle care, early guidance, and growing smiles every step of the way.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #CavityPrevention #HealthySmiles #EarlyDentalCare"
✨Smile transformation alert—wait for it! ✨
Teen orthodontics can boost kids` confidence! 🦷💫
At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our orthodontic care reflects our vision of beautiful and heathy smiles that are functional and esthetically pleasing for life!
When do you think the right time is for a teen orthodontic check? 👀👇
📞 Call (310) 837-6453
📧 Email info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
💙 Growing smiles with care, comfort, and heart.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #EarlyOrthodontics #HealthyBites #GrowingSmiles
