Madderra Dental Spa

TMJ/TMD Treatment in San Francisco

Find lasting relief from jaw pain, headaches, and clicking with expert, compassionate TMJ disorder treatment at Madderra Dental Spa.

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Understanding TMJ Disorders: You Don't Have to Live with the Pain

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the two small, complex joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull, located just in front of each ear. These joints work in concert with a network of muscles, ligaments, and the disc within the joint to allow you to open and close your mouth, chew, speak, and yawn. When something goes wrong with this intricate system, it's called a Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.

TMD can manifest as a wide range of symptoms, from a dull, persistent ache in the jaw to sharp, debilitating pain that radiates to the head, neck, and shoulders. Millions of Americans suffer from TMD, and many don't realize that a dentist is often the best-qualified professional to diagnose and treat the condition. The causes are varied and can include stress-related clenching and grinding (bruxism), a misaligned bite, arthritis in the joint, or injury to the jaw.

At Madderra Dental Spa, Dr. Madderra and Dr. Holmann bring over three decades of combined experience to the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders. Our approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of the neuromuscular relationship between your jaw, teeth, and muscles. We focus on conservative, non-surgical treatments first, aiming to relieve your pain and restore comfortable, natural jaw function in our calming, spa-like environment.

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TMJ disorder examination

Common Signs & Symptoms of TMD

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. Schedule a consultation for a proper diagnosis:

  • Jaw Pain or Tenderness: Persistent aching or soreness in the jaw, face, or around the ear, especially when chewing or speaking.
  • Clicking or Popping: Audible sounds when opening or closing your mouth, sometimes accompanied by a catching or locking sensation.
  • Chronic Headaches: Frequent tension headaches or migraines, often worse in the morning from nighttime clenching.
  • Difficulty Opening Wide: Limited range of motion in the jaw, making it hard to open your mouth fully or yawn comfortably.
  • Ear Pain or Ringing: Pain in or around the ear (not caused by an infection), or persistent ringing (tinnitus).
  • Neck & Shoulder Pain: Radiating pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders related to jaw muscle tension.

Our Comprehensive TMD Treatment Options

We believe in a conservative, multi-faceted approach to TMD treatment. Dr. Madderra will create a personalized plan tailored to the specific cause and severity of your condition.

Custom Oral Appliances

Precision-crafted night guards and stabilization splints designed to reposition the jaw, reduce clenching pressure, and protect teeth from grinding damage.

Therapeutic Botox

Targeted Botox injections into overworked jaw muscles (masseter, temporalis) to relieve tension, reduce pain, and prevent involuntary clenching and grinding.

Bite Adjustment

Carefully reshaping the biting surfaces of teeth or using restorations to correct an uneven bite that may be contributing to TMJ stress and dysfunction.

Lifestyle & Therapy

Guided jaw exercises, stress management techniques, physical therapy referrals, and ergonomic recommendations to address the root causes of your TMD.

The Madderra Diagnostic Approach

Effective TMD treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis. We take the time to understand the full picture of your condition before recommending any treatment, ensuring we address the root cause — not just the symptoms.

Your TMD Evaluation: What to Expect

  1. 1

    Comprehensive History & Symptom Review

    We begin with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, their duration, triggers, and impact on your daily life. We'll ask about your medical history, stress levels, sleep habits, and any previous treatments you've tried. This thorough intake helps us understand the full scope of your condition.

  2. 2

    Clinical Examination

    Dr. Madderra will perform a hands-on examination of your jaw joints, muscles of mastication, and bite alignment. We'll assess your range of motion, listen for joint sounds, palpate the muscles for tenderness, and evaluate how your teeth come together. This clinical assessment is critical for pinpointing the source of dysfunction.

  3. 3

    Advanced Imaging

    Digital X-rays and, when necessary, advanced imaging help us visualize the joint structures, bone condition, and any signs of arthritis or disc displacement. This technology allows us to see beyond the surface and make a precise, informed diagnosis.

  4. 4

    Personalized Treatment Plan

    Based on our findings, we develop a customized, phased treatment plan designed to provide both immediate relief and long-term resolution. We'll explain every recommendation, discuss the expected timeline, and answer all your questions so you feel confident and informed about your path to comfort.

At-Home TMD Relief & Self-Care Tips

In addition to professional treatment, these daily habits can help manage your symptoms and support your recovery:

  • Apply Warm Compresses: Place a warm, moist towel on the jaw for 10-15 minutes several times a day to relax tense muscles and increase blood flow.
  • Eat Soft Foods: During flare-ups, stick to soft foods and avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy items that strain the jaw muscles and joints.
  • Practice Jaw Relaxation: Throughout the day, consciously keep your teeth slightly apart with your tongue resting on the roof of your mouth. This "lips together, teeth apart" position reduces clenching.
  • Gentle Stretching Exercises: Perform the specific jaw exercises we prescribe to improve mobility and reduce muscle tension over time.
  • Manage Stress: Since stress is a major trigger for clenching and grinding, incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your routine.

What Our Patients Say

"I suffered from jaw pain for years. Dr. Madderra's conservative approach to TMJ treatment changed my life. No more headaches, no more clicking. Incredible relief."

David K.

TMJ Treatment

October 2025

"The custom night guard has been life-changing. No more morning headaches or jaw pain. Dr. Madderra truly understands TMJ disorders."

Susan L.

TMJ Treatment

October 2024

"I tried several dentists before finding Madderra Dental Spa. The conservative, holistic approach to my TMJ issues finally brought relief. Grateful for the expertise."

Daniel F.

TMJ Treatment

September 2024

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ/TMD Treatment

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the joint itself. TMD stands for Temporomandibular Disorder, which refers to the actual problems and symptoms affecting the joint and surrounding muscles. While the terms are often used interchangeably, TMD is the correct clinical term for the condition.
Our primary goal is to alleviate your pain, not cause more. We prioritize conservative, non-invasive treatments and a gentle approach. Most patients experience relief from their symptoms during and after treatment. We ensure you are comfortable and informed at every step.
The timeline for relief varies depending on the individual and the severity of the TMD. Some patients feel improvement after a single visit, while others may require several weeks or months of treatment, especially if using a custom oral appliance. Dr. Madderra or Dr. Holmann will provide a personalized treatment plan and timeline during your consultation.
Coverage for TMD treatment can vary significantly between dental and medical insurance plans. Some plans cover diagnostic services and certain treatments, while others do not. Our knowledgeable team will help you understand your benefits and can submit pre-authorizations to your insurance provider to clarify your coverage.
Ignoring TMD symptoms can lead to a worsening of the condition. Chronic pain can become more severe, and persistent jaw dysfunction may lead to permanent damage to the joint, cartilage, and teeth from grinding (bruxism). Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications.
Yes, for many patients, Botox is a highly effective treatment for TMD. When injected into the overworked jaw muscles (like the masseter), it helps them relax, which can significantly reduce jaw tension, headaches, and pain associated with clenching and grinding. It is a minimally invasive treatment with targeted results.
We may recommend a custom-fitted oral appliance, such as a stabilization splint or a night guard. Unlike over-the-counter guards, these are precisely fabricated based on digital impressions of your teeth to hold your jaw in an optimal position, relieving pressure on the joint and preventing grinding.
Absolutely. As part of our comprehensive approach, we often recommend specific gentle jaw stretching and relaxation exercises. These can help increase jaw mobility, reduce muscle tension, and complement your in-office treatment. We will provide detailed instructions on which exercises are right for you.

Related Services

Botox for Jaw Tension

Therapeutic Botox is a key part of our TMD treatment, relaxing overworked jaw muscles to provide significant pain relief.

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Dental Crowns

If an imbalanced bite contributes to your TMD, custom crowns can help restore proper alignment and function.

Learn More →

Comprehensive Exams

A thorough dental exam is the first step in diagnosing the root cause of your jaw pain and creating an effective treatment plan.

Learn More →

Ready to Find Lasting Relief from Jaw Pain?

You don't have to live with the daily discomfort of TMD. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Madderra or Dr. Holmann today and take the first step toward lasting comfort. Experience our spa-like, patient-focused care in the heart of San Francisco's Castro District.

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