706 Frederick Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Relieve Jaw Pain and Restore Function
If you experience chronic jaw pain, tension headaches, or a clicking or popping sound when you chew, you may have a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At Dr. Aura Marcela Torres’s office, we provide personalized TMJ therapy designed to relieve discomfort, reduce joint strain, and restore smooth, pain-free jaw movement.
Our approach is comprehensive: we identify the underlying cause, rule out other potential issues, and develop evidence-based treatments tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and oral health needs. We serve patients in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Scotts Valley, Soquel, and nearby communities, combining advanced diagnostics, custom appliances, and lifestyle guidance to improve long-term jaw health.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing you to speak, chew, and move your jaw comfortably. When the joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Headaches or migraines
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully
- Facial tenderness or swelling
Many patients also grind or clench their teeth, particularly at night (a condition called bruxism). TMJ therapy often addresses these issues simultaneously, using customized oral appliances and other treatments.
TMJ Therapy Options
Your treatment plan depends on the severity and root cause of your condition. Options may include:
Occlusal Splints or Nightguards
Custom oral appliances help reposition the jaw, reduce joint strain, and protect teeth from grinding. They are often worn at night to prevent bruxism-related damage.
Bite Adjustment or Equilibration
Minor reshaping of tooth surfaces can improve how your upper and lower teeth meet, easing muscle fatigue and joint stress.
Lifestyle & At-Home Strategies
Jaw exercises, posture adjustments, stress management, and other at-home techniques can support long-term improvement and reduce flare-ups.
Personalized, Precise Care by Experts
At Dr. Torres’s practice, TMJ therapy combines clinical precision with individualized attention. We focus on uncovering the root cause of your jaw discomfort and providing solutions that work, whether through conservative treatments, custom oral appliances, or adjunct therapies like Botox.
By addressing TMJ from multiple angles, we help patients restore comfort, improve function, and protect their long-term oral health.