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.
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✨ A New Invisalign® Smile ✨
Start with an Invisalign® Oral Health Scan at Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics to see a digital preview of your child’s future smile. Patients who complete an Invisalign Smile Scan consultation during the promotional period will be eligible for a chance to win FREE Invisalign treatment. No purchase necessary. Eligibility and official sweepstakes rules apply.
Contact Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics today to schedule your child’s Invisalign® Smile Scan and see how a future confident smile could look.
Our West Los Angeles pediatric orthodontic team uses advanced Invisalign technology to gently guide growing smiles with comfort, flexibility, and a nearly invisible orthodontic experience designed for kids and teens.
📞 Call our office today: (310) 837-6453
🌐 https://smilesla.com/
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Schedule your Invisalign Smile Scan consultation and your child will be eligible for a chance to win FREE Invisalign treatment during the sweepstakes period.Patients who complete an Invisalign Smile Scan consultation between February 2, 2026 and March 22, 2026 will be eligible for a chance to win FREE Invisalign treatment. No purchase necessary
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #InvisalignKids #InvisalignSmile #ClearAlignersLA
Our Founder, Dr. Reem Shares What Every Parent Should Know About Pediatric Dental Trauma 🦷✨
A child’s dental injury can happen in an instant, during sports, playtime, or even a simple moment at home ⚽. In this newly released blog, Dr. Reem, walks parents through exactly what to do when a child chips, displaces, or knocks out a tooth. Her goal is to help families feel prepared, calm, and supported when unexpected dental emergencies occur.
Grounded in modern evidence-based pediatric dentistry, Dr. Reem explains how timing, proper handling of injured teeth, and early communication with a pediatric dental team can significantly improve outcomes. The blog also highlights differences between baby teeth and permanent teeth injuries, how teledentistry offers immediate guidance, and why prevention through custom mouthguards plays an important role in protecting growing smiles ❤️.
📖 To learn more about how to respond confidently during a dental emergency, read our blog below:
https://smilesla.com/pediatric-dentistry-orthodontics/pediatric-dental-trauma-in-los-angeles-chipped-displaced-knocked-out-teeth
💬 Has your child ever experienced a dental accident? What questions came up in that moment? Share your story or ask us below — your experience may help another parent feel prepared 🤍
📲 If your child experiences a dental injury, contact our office right away so our team can guide you step-by-step with gentle, expert care.
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Contact Information:
Phone: (310) 837-6453
Email: info@smilesla.com
Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
🌸 Gentle care. Supportive guidance. Healthy smiles that grow with confidence.
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #DentalTraumaCare #KidsDentalEmergency #LosAngelesPediatricDentist #HealthyKidsSmiles
Why do some kids suddenly look like they have shark teeth? 🦈🦷
Sometimes permanent teeth begin growing in before baby teeth fall out. For a short period, this can create two rows of teeth. It may look surprising, but many times this phase is temporary and self-correcting as normal growth continues.
Noticing this stage often brings questions. Learning how smiles naturally develop can bring reassurance 📘
If you have questions about your child’s dental development, our team is happy to help.
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Phone: (310) 837-6453
Email: info@smilesla.com
Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle education. Caring guidance. Smiles supported every step 🌱
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #SharkTeeth #ExtraTeeth #ToothDevelopment #BabyTeeth
💛 Part 5 of 5 — At Smiles we celebrate every moment 🌼
Melissa says “Barbie,” and Dr. Reem responds with joy, gratitude, and encouragement. A simple exchange becomes something meaningful. Gentle praise. A warm thank you. A hug offered with care. Even noticing Melissa’s yellow outfit turns into connection. This moment reflects how kindness and patience shape a welcoming dental experience, where children feel seen and celebrated.
Moments like these remind us how powerful gentle care dentistry can be. What stood out to you in this moment? 💬🌸
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453 | 📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles
Gentle voices. Loving care. Smiles celebrated every step of the way 😊💛
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #SpecialNeedsDentistry #GentleCare #CelebratingSmiles
💛 Part 4 of 5 — Support that extends beyond the dental chair 🌼
Nicole, Melissa’s caregiver, shares what makes Smiles feel so special. Every visit feels patient, kind, and deeply understanding of Melissa’s needs. The team gently shows how to guide and prompt her during care. Those lessons matter. Nicole brings what she learns into daily routines, helping Melissa feel more confident and comfortable at home. That shared support creates something truly beautiful.
Care feels lighter when support is shared. What kind of support matters most to you? 😊
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453 | 📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles
Gentle guidance. Loving care. Smiles supported together 😊🌼
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #SpecialNeedsDentistry #GentleDentalCare
😊🦷Did you know some children are born with extra tooth buds?
Sometimes, extra tooth buds form before birth and can create additional teeth. This happens when the dental tissue that forms teeth divides or develops differently very early in pregnancy. In some children, this process creates more tooth buds than usual, which may lead to extra baby teeth, extra permanent teeth, or both. Genetics can also play a role, and this variation occurs naturally during dental development.
Every smile develops in its own unique way, and these differences are part of normal dental growth. With thoughtful monitoring and gentle care, our team can guide healthy development as a child grows.
Curious about how smiles grow and change over time? Share your questions below 💬🌼
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Phone: (310) 837-6453
Email: info@smilesla.com
Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle education. Caring guidance. Smiles supported every step 😊💛
#SupernumeraryTeeth#ToothBuds #SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #GentleDentistry #DentalEducation
💛 Part 3 of 5 — When hope finally replaces years of worry 😊🌸
Cheryl shares how years of challenges left her feeling discouraged. One phone call changed everything. Dr. Reem personally called her back and took time to talk through what was possible. Together, they created a plan that included care under anesthesia when needed, followed by ongoing support designed to help avoid repeating it. Through patience, trust, and thoughtful planning rooted in special needs dentistry, Melissa has continued care successfully. What once felt overwhelming now feels almost miraculous.
Have you ever felt relief after finally being heard by a provider? Share your story below 💬💛
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453 | 📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles
Gentle conversations. Caring plans. Smiles built on trust 😊🌼
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #SpecialNeedsDentistry #GentleCare #SupportiveSmiles
💛 Part 2 of 5 — What if special needs dentistry actually planned for your child? 😊
Cheryl shares how Smiles offered something she never expected. One familiar dental team could support Melissa’s regular visits while also preparing for more complex care. Extra time, clear communication, and emotional understanding mattered. For children with developmental disabilities, anxiety around dental care feels real. Smiles approached every visit with patience, intention, and preparation rooted in special needs dentistry.
Would thoughtful planning and extra time make dental visits easier for your child? Share below 💬🌼
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453 | 📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles
Gentle care. Loving support. Smiles that feel safe 🌸😊
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #kidsdentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #SpecialNeedsDentistry #GentleCare #SupportiveSmiles
