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.
Parents always ask — why see a dentist at age one? 👶🦷
Because a healthy smile starts early! The best time to build lifelong oral health is right at the beginning of your child’s journey. At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West Los Angeles, Dr. Reem and our team love guiding parents through their baby’s first dentist visit — making it gentle, positive, and fun. 💛
Early dental visits help prevent cavities, create good habits, and make future appointments easy and comfortable. Teaching parents how to care for their baby’s mouth is truly where healthy smiles begin. 🌈
What age was your child’s first dental visit? 💬
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing with your child every step of the way. ✨
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #KidsDentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #FirstDentalVisit #BabyDentist
What if a little 3D magic could help your child’s smile grow just right? ✨🦷
We’re so excited to introduce SmileKeeper™ — a next-generation, 3D printed, metal-free space maintainer made just for kids! 💫
Created by our founder, Dr. Reem, at Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West Los Angeles, SmileKeeper™ combines digital precision with gentle care to protect space for growing teeth when a baby tooth is lost too early.
No metal. No discomfort. Just a soft, custom fit and a happier smile. 💖
This is more than technology — it’s how we care for kids with compassion, creativity, and love.
👇 Read our new blog to see how Dr. Reem and our team are shaping the future of pediatric dentistry with SmileKeeper™!
👉 https://smilesla.com/pediatric-dentistry-orthodontics/pediatric-space-maintainer-3dprinted-smilekeeper
Parents — has your child ever lost a baby tooth early? Share your story or drop your questions below! 💬✨
Want to learn if SmileKeeper™ is right for your child?
Call or message us today to schedule a gentle, easy visit. We’re here to make every child’s dental experience comfortable and fun! 🌈💛
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Caring hearts. Growing smiles. A gentler way to shine. 💕
#PediatricSpaceMaintainer#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #SmileKeeper #KidsDentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #3DPrintedKidsSpaceMaintainer #kidstoothloss
Part 2 of 2 🍼💛 Pacifier
Here’s how to help your toddler say goodbye to the pacifier — gently and successfully. 🌈
Step 1: Downsize. Keep just one or two pacifiers and get rid of the rest.
Step 2: Use a clean pair of scissors to snip a tiny hole in the tip — this allows the pacifier to start collapsing. ✂️
Step 3: Every few nights, trim a little more off the tip. Tell your toddler their teeth must be super sharp and might be “nibbling” at it while they sleep — this keeps it lighthearted and positive. 💛
Step 4: Continue trimming until there’s no nipple left. The pacifier will slowly lose its comfort, helping your toddler let go naturally.
And just like that — it’s a happy pacifier graduation! 🧡🎓
Have you tried weaning your child off the pacifier yet? 💬
Share your experience or tips below — your story might help another parent!
Need gentle guidance for your child’s smile journey? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits together. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#PacifierWeaning
3 surprising things that can happen when baby teeth come in 🦷💛
One — Mild rash around the mouth: Caused by extra drooling that can irritate the skin.
Two — Rubbing gums: A natural response that helps teeth break through and soothes tender gums.
Three — Slight elevation of temperature: Sometimes happens when little ones eat or drink less during teething.
Pro tip: Keep a soft bib handy and apply a gentle moisturizer to help prevent rashes from drool. 💧🧡
Did any of these surprise you? 💬 Share your little one’s teething story below — we love hearing from our Smiles families!
Have questions about your baby’s first teeth? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Healthy habits from the first tooth. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#BabyTeeth
#TeethingTips
#HealthySmiles
Part 1 of 2 🍼💛
Ever wonder how long your child should keep their pacifier?
It starts as comfort — but over time, it can quietly change how little teeth and jaws grow.
In this video, Dr. Reem explains what happens when pacifier use continues into toddlerhood. The pacifier begins to act almost like an orthodontic appliance, changing the balance between the tongue, cheeks, and dental arches. 🦷✨
This shift can lead to what’s called a “Binky bite,” where the upper arch narrows, front teeth flare out, and back teeth collapse inward. Understanding this early helps protect your child’s developing smile. 🌈
Stay tuned for part 2, where Dr. Reem shares gentle, effective ways to help your toddler wean off the pacifier with love and success. 💛
Have you started the pacifier transition yet? 💬
Share your experience below — you might help another parent going through it too!
Need personalized guidance for your little one? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits together. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#PacifierWeaning #binkybite
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pediatric dentist in west LA explains pacifier weaning
Did you know babies grow 20 tiny teeth — and the first one often appears around 6 months? 🦷✨ Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, though every little smile has its own timing. The bottom front teeth usually pop up first, followed by those adorable top ones. By age 3, most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth! 🌈
Pro tip: Start early! Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth helps build healthy oral habits even before that first tooth arrives. 💧💛
When did your baby’s first tooth make its debut? Share your milestone moment below — we’d love to celebrate with you! 💬
Have questions about caring for your baby’s smile? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Healthy habits from the very first tooth. 🌼
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#BabyTeeth
#TeethingTips
From his very first visit as a toddler to now — Oliver has been part of our Smiles family for 15 years! 💛 Watching our patients grow up with Dr. Reem is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. 🧡
Every smile tells a story — and we love being part of yours. 🌈
Do you have a Smiles story? 💬 Share your journey with us in the comments — we’d love to hear how long your family has been part of ours!
Want to start your child’s smile story today? 📲 Send us a DM or call to schedule your visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing together through every stage. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#GrowingSmiles
#FamilyCare
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teen boy share dental story
Did you know the #1 area at risk for early childhood cavities in your toddler’s mouth is those adorable two top front teeth? 🦷✨ Unlike the bottom front teeth that get swept by the tongue and naturally washed with saliva, the top teeth are the first to be exposed to what your little one eats and drinks — which makes brushing here super important! 💛
Pro tip: If your toddler’s teeth touch instead of having small spaces between them, it’s time to start flossing — especially in that center midline contact! 🪥💫
Have you noticed if your child’s teeth touch or have space between them? Share your experience or ask us your toddler brushing questions below! 💬
Want personalized tips to protect your child’s smile? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits early. 🌈
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#CavityPrevention
