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
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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).
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Physical Therapy:
- Jaw and neck stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension.
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Red-Light Therapy:
- TheraFace Pro by Therabody infrared and red-light therapy
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Laser Therapy:
- Photobiomodulation with Gemini Laser
- Solea Laser for muscular relaxation
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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.
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Pain Management:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen
- Muscle relaxants for short-term use in severe cases.
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Advanced Interventions:
- Botox Injections: Temporarily relaxes overactive jaw muscles.
- Trigger Point Injections : For targeted pain relief in the jaw and surrounding muscles.
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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.
USC Pediatric Residents + Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics = A perfect combo for fun and surprises! 😄🎉
We had the absolute pleasure of welcoming future pediatric dentists from USC into our practice — and they brought the energy, compassion, and curiosity that make this field so special! 🦷💫
At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA, we believe learning should be hands-on, joyful, and filled with smiles — whether you`re a student, a patient, or a parent. Our team loves mentoring the next generation of dental professionals while creating a warm, uplifting space for families.
📞 Want your child to experience compassionate, forward-thinking care in a place that inspires future dentists too?
Call (310) 837-6453 to schedule your visit today!
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🍼 Did you know most parents underestimate this number? 🦷 🦷 🦷
“How many baby teeth do children have?” might seem simple — but the answer surprises a lot of people!
👀 Swipe to find out — and learn why these little teeth matter more than you think.
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA, where tiny teeth get top-tier care. 💛
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Besties get tooth glam at Smiles! ✨🦷
Chloe Alivia (@chloealivia8073) came in with her bestie Izzy (Dr. Reem’s daughter!) — and got an amazing smile sparkle from Dr. Reem herself 💫
Mom Adora (@jercha385) joined for the visit too, making it a full heart, full smile kind of day 💖
We’re all about turning dental care into a confident, joyful experience — especially when it’s shared with friends ✨
📞 Want your child to experience personalized, tech-forward care in a warm, family-friendly space?
Call (310) 837-6453 or DM us to schedule your visit with Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA.
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🪥💡 Manual vs. electric: Which toothbrush wins for kids?
It`s a question we hear from parents all the time — and the answer might surprise you!
Hint: it’s not just about the brush — it’s about how it’s used 😉
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Follow for more dental health care tips!
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CAD and 3D printing in pediatric dentistry, everything you ever wanted to know- Blog 😍👇
https://smilesla.com/pediatric-dentistry-orthodontics/cad-computer-aided-design-3d-printing-technologies-pediatric-dentistry-west-la/
Custom, same-day dental care for kids and teens is now possible with leading-edge CAD and 3D printing in pediatric dentistry 🦷✨ — bringing comfort, precision, and speed to every smile.
Say goodbye to messy impressions and hello to digital scans, beautifully fitted appliances, and treatments designed just for your child 💻🖨️ — from mouthguards to space maintainers and more, at Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA
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Pediatric Dentist explains CAD and 3D Printing
Some of the most common things we believed about dental care for years? 🚫 Turns out… science had other plans.
Can you guess which ones got totally flipped? 🧠🦷
👉 Swipe to find out what modern pediatric dentistry looks like now.
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA, a dental home
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One home. One team. 🏡💙💛🧡
At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our vision is rooted in providing efficient, comprehensive care — all under one yellow roof! From first teeth to full orthodontics, we’ve got your child’s smile covered, every step of the way.
#dentalhome #SmilesPediatricDentistryOrthodontics #ComprehensiveCare #PediatricDentist #OrthodonticsForKids #HealthySmiles #AllUnderOneRoof #FamilyDentalCare #LA
Dental emergencies can be scary — especially when a permanent tooth is involved! 😬
What should you do if your child chips or knocks out a permanent tooth?
➡️ Swipe to learn the steps that could save their smile.
#DentalEmergency #KidsToothCare #SmilesPediatricDentistryOrthodontics #PermanentTooth #ParentDentalTips #HealthySmiles #LA
