Conservative, evidence-based treatment for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in West Hills, CA — including occlusal splint therapy, physical therapy, and targeted injections.
Conservative Care, First
The majority of temporomandibular disorders respond to non-surgical, reversible care. National Institutes of Health guidance recommends beginning with the most conservative therapies and reserving irreversible or surgical procedures for the small number of cases that require them. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore comfortable jaw function, and prevent recurrence.
Occlusal Splint Therapy
A custom-fitted occlusal splint (stabilization appliance) is worn over the teeth to reduce muscle overactivity, protect the teeth from clenching and grinding, and unload the temporomandibular joint. Splints are fabricated from a precise impression or digital scan and adjusted over follow-up visits.
Physical Therapy and Jaw Exercises
Guided jaw exercises, manual therapy, and posture correction improve range of motion and reduce muscle pain. Patients are taught a home program of stretching, controlled opening, and relaxation techniques that support long-term improvement.
Behavioral and Lifestyle Strategies
Daytime clenching awareness, a temporary soft-food period during flare-ups, stress management, and heat or cold application are simple measures that meaningfully reduce symptoms for many patients.
Medication and Injection Therapy
When indicated, short courses of anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxants, trigger-point injections, or botulinum toxin for muscle overactivity may be used as part of a coordinated plan. These are selected case-by-case and combined with the conservative measures above.
What to Expect
Treatment begins with a thorough examination and diagnosis using established DC/TMD criteria. A personalized plan is reviewed with you, and progress is monitored over scheduled follow-up visits. Most patients experience meaningful improvement within several weeks of consistent care.
Related Pages
Patients are seen at the West Hills office from Los Angeles County, Ventura County, West Hills, Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, Calabasas, Sherman Oaks & Encino, Northridge & Chatsworth, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Agoura Hills & Westlake Village.
