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.
Dentistry Was Early to 3D Printing 🖨️ Custom devices like retainers, aligners, crowns, and mouthguards are perfect for 3D printing since every mouth is completely unique. 🦷 A digital scan can turn into a precisely designed, custom-printed device the same visit, no molds, no waiting on an outside lab. We print in-house here, which means space maintainers, retainers, and more can often be ready same-day, with quick turnaround if anything ever needs adjusting or replacing. Share your thoughts with us below 💬
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone: (310) 837-6453 Email: info@smilesla.com Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064
Precision Printed for Your Child 🖨️
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #3DPrintedDentistry #DigitalDentistryLA #PediatricDentistWestLA
The First Dentist Lived 4,600 Years Ago 🦷 Around 2600 B.C., an Egyptian scribe named Hesy-Re became the first dentist in recorded history, his own tomb calling him the greatest of those who deal with teeth. 📜 4,600 years later, the tools have come a long way, thankfully. We use an all-tissue laser here that can treat many cavities without the numbness of local anesthesia, no needle, no chanting required. 😄 Isn`t that amazing? 💙
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone: (310) 837-6453 Email: info@smilesla.com Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064
4,600 Years of Caring for Smiles 🦷
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #DentalHistory #SoleaLaser #PediatricDentistWestLA"
Mila’s Sports Guard Journey Part 3 of 3 🏐🦷
Mila wanted her sports guard to be clear and discreet, so it would feel almost invisible while she plays. ✨
Dr. Reem customized the guard from Mila’s digital scan, creating a balanced bite and a small amount of give for those intense moments when athletes may clench their teeth during competition.
Mila tests her guard by breathing, talking, and imagining herself in the heat of the game. Her verdict? It feels great and completely natural. 🙌
A custom sports guard should fit your athlete’s mouth, support their sport, and help them play with confidence.
Is your athlete ready for a custom sports guard? Schedule a consultation with Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in West L.A. today! 📞
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
#SportsDentistry #PediatricSportsDentistry #CustomSportsMouthguard #WestLAPediatricDentist
Mila’s Sports Guard Journey Part 2 of 3 🏐🦷
Two custom sports guards. Two different thicknesses. One important goal: finding the right fit for Mila’s game. ✨
Dr. Reem created two options so Mila could compare comfort and protection while talking, biting, and breathing naturally.
As a volleyball setter, Mila needs to communicate clearly and stay focused on the court. A sports guard should protect her smile without distracting her from the game.
Now it’s time to see which guard feels best for this young athlete. 💪🏐
Is your child active in sports? Schedule a custom sports guard consultation with Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in West L.A. today! 📞
**Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics**
10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
#SportsDentistry #PediatricSportsDentistry #CustomSportsMouthguard #WestLAPediatricDentist
Mila’s Sports Guard Journey Part 1 of 3 🏐🦷
Mila is 13, a volleyball setter, and a longtime Smiles patient. Our founder, Dr. Reem, has known Mila since before her first birthday.
After Mila took a volleyball to the mouth and experienced significant lip swelling and bruising, she and her mom revisited the benefits of a custom sports guard.
Because Mila wanted something subtle, they chose a clear sports guard designed to be mostly invisible while helping protect her smile on the court.
At Smiles we believe athletes can lead by example by playing confidently, playing safely, and protecting their smiles. 💪🏐
Ready to protect your athlete’s smile? Schedule a custom sports guard consultation with Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in West L.A. today! 📞
**Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics**
10582 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
#SportsDentistry #PediatricSportsDentistry #CustomSportsMouthguard #WestLAPediatricDentist
Your Teeth Are More Unique Than You Think 🦷 Just like fingerprints, your teeth are completely unique, not even identical twins share the same dental pattern. ✨ That`s actually why dental records are used for identification. It`s also part of why we scan every mouth individually here, whatever we design, whether it`s a retainer, an expander, or a mouthguard, it`s built around your child`s actual teeth, not a generic mold. What do you think? Tell us below! 💬
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone: (310) 837-6453 Email: info@smilesla.com Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064
As Unique as a Fingerprint 🦷
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #DentalFacts #PediatricDentistWestLA #UniqueSmile
We rebuilt a TWO-YEAR-OLD`s front tooth using a 3D printer, same day 🖨️🦷 No lab, no waiting weeks, no metal. Just a scan, a design, and a printed restoration that matches her natural smile perfectly. This is what ""gentle, growth-friendly dentistry"" actually looks like in 2026 ✨ Would you have believed this a few years ago? Comment below! 💬 Learn if same-day restoration fits your child`s needs, contact our office 📞
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone: (310) 837-6453 Email: info@smilesla.com Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064
Caring for smiles, big and small ☀️
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #3DPrintedDentistry #EstheticDentistryLA #SameDayRestoration #PediatricDentistWestLA"
Sports Causes Up to 39% of Kids` Dental Injuries 🏈 Between 10% and 39% of all dental injuries in kids happen during sports, and a properly fitted mouthguard acts as a shock absorber for teeth, lips, and jaw. 🦷 Dr. Reem is a Certified Sports Team Dentist, so protecting young athletes is personal to us, not just a box we check. Every mouthguard starts with a precise 3D scan, then gets designed and printed to fit your child`s exact bite, so it stays comfortable and stays put during play. ✨ A sweet one to pass along to your kids 💙 Contact our office to schedule a fitting 📞
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone: (310) 837-6453 Email: info@smilesla.com Address: 10582 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064
Built for the Bench and the Big Game 🏈
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #SportsDentistryLA #3DPrintedMouthguard #YouthAthleteSafety
