Top TMJ Doctor in Mishawaka IN

At Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, our experienced team specializes in providing comprehensive and individualized care for patients struggling with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. We understand that TMJ pain can significantly impact your quality of life, and we are dedicated to offering effective, non-surgical solutions tailored to your specific symptoms and underlying causes.

Our approach begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the root cause of your TMJ discomfort. We often start with conservative treatments such as custom-fitted oral appliances—also known as splints or mouthguards—designed to reduce teeth grinding (bruxism), ease pressure on the jaw joints, and promote proper jaw alignment. These appliances are crafted to suit your unique needs and are an essential part of our TMJ therapy protocols.

In addition, our team may recommend physical therapy exercises designed to strengthen jaw muscles, restore mobility, and alleviate pain. We also work closely with you to identify and address contributing factors, such as stress, poor posture, or misaligned bite, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. For some patients, medication such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to provide further relief.

For persistent or severe cases, more advanced, minimally invasive therapies, including trigger point injections or referrals for specialized procedures when necessary. Our collaborative care model may also involve coordination with physical therapists, orthodontists, or other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan.

At Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which are often responsible for chronic jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort. When you visit Koala Center, you’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed review of your medical and sleep history, a physical examination of your jaw, and, when needed, advanced imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans. This thorough approach helps us identify the root cause of your TMJ symptoms—whether it’s due to muscle tension, inflammation, joint misalignment, or even related sleep issues like teeth grinding and clenching.

Once we determine the source of your discomfort, our TMJ experts will create a personalized treatment plan designed just for you. We utilize a wide range of effective therapies, including lifestyle recommendations to minimize jaw strain, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and targeted physical therapy exercises to strengthen your jaw muscles and enhance joint function. We also offer custom fitted oral appliances, such as night guards and splints, which can be particularly beneficial if your TMJ disorder is linked to sleep-related behaviors like bruxism (teeth grinding) or sleep apnea.

If conservative measures do not provide sufficient relief, our experienced team can discuss advanced options, such as joint injections or minimally invasive procedures, always prioritizing your comfort and long-term health. Throughout your care at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we closely monitor your progress, adjusting your treatment plan as necessary to ensure optimal results.

Our experienced team specializes in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. We understand that TMJ symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, and we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to determine the underlying causes and severity of your TMJ disorder. We emphasize conservative, non-surgical treatment options as the first line of care. This often includes patient education on self-care strategies, such as adopting a soft food diet, using ice or heat therapy, and practicing specific jaw relaxation and stretching exercises designed to relieve discomfort and improve function.

A cornerstone of our treatment at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders is oral appliance therapy. We utilize custom made splints and night guards that help protect against teeth grinding and jaw clenching during sleep, reducing stress on the TMJ and alleviating pain. Our oral appliances are designed to be comfortable and effective, supporting both jaw health and quality sleep.

When appropriate, we may recommend targeted medications—such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants—to help manage inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, we often incorporate physical therapy into our treatment plans, working with skilled therapists to guide patients through gentle exercises that enhance jaw mobility and strength.

Jaw pain or discomfort can stem from a variety of causes, such as dental issues, muscle tension, or problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, our team specializes in accurately diagnosing and treating TMJ-related conditions to help you regain comfort and quality of life. If you’re unsure whether you should seek care from a TMJ specialist, consider the nature, duration, and severity of your symptoms.

Persistent jaw pain lasting longer than a week or recurring frequently, especially if it makes chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth difficult, may indicate a TMJ disorder. Additional signs that you should schedule a comprehensive evaluation at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders include:

• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving your jaw
• Jaw joint locking (either stuck open or closed)
• Headaches or earaches not explained by other conditions
• Changes in your bite or how your teeth fit together
• Facial swelling or unexplained tooth pain
• History of jaw injury or arthritis

While mild or occasional jaw discomfort may sometimes improve with rest, gentle jaw exercises, or over-the-counter pain relief, ongoing or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. Our experienced providers at Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders offer specialized assessments and advanced treatment options tailored to your unique needs.

Don’t let jaw pain interfere with your daily life. Contact Koala Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders today for a thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan to help you find lasting relief and prevent complications. For more information, please contact us today or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Mishawaka IN, Woodland IN, Granger IN, Ardmore IN, Notre Dame IN, and surrounded areas.