Experience relief from TMJ symptoms with a personalized approach at our Louisville dental office
William H. Smythe DMD in Louisville provides comprehensive TMJ (temporomandibular joint) diagnosis and treatment — from custom splints and bite therapy to lifestyle modifications and pain management. Dr. William H. Smythe IV evaluates your jaw function, bite alignment, and muscle tension to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether you’re dealing with jaw pain, headaches, clicking, or difficulty chewing, we can help. Schedule your TMJ consultation or call (502) 448-2876.
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD), also known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), is a condition that affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint is one of the most complex joints in the human body, and when it is not functioning properly, it can cause a range of painful symptoms.
Symptoms of TMD can include pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or neck, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, and headaches. Some people with TMD may also experience a locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open or close the mouth.
TMJ disorders have multiple possible causes — bite misalignment, bruxism (teeth grinding), arthritis, muscle tension, or trauma. Dr. William H. Smythe IV begins with a thorough evaluation: palpating the jaw muscles and joint, analyzing your bite with articulating paper, reviewing imaging, and discussing your symptom history. Treatment is tailored to the specific cause — not a one-size-fits-all splint.
Medically reviewed by Dr. William H. Smythe IV, DMD · University of Louisville School of Dentistry, 1996 · Kentucky dental license #3628 · William H. Smythe DMD, 5141 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40216 · same location since 1973.
The causes of TMD are not always clear, but several factors have been identified as potential triggers. These can include a misalignment of the teeth or jaw, teeth grinding or clenching, arthritis in the joint, and injuries or trauma to the jaw.
Diagnosing TMD can be challenging, as there is no single test to confirm the condition. A healthcare provider will typically perform a physical exam, take a medical history, and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms. Additionally, dentists may use diagnostic techniques such as measuring the range of motion of the jaw or assessing the patient’s bite to aid in the diagnosis of TMJ.
There are certain signs of TMJ that often go ignored because people don’t realize there is a correlation. These signs include:
If you experience any of these symptoms or signs, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our Louisville TMJ dentist to determine if TMJ treatment is necessary.
Jaw Pain
Pain in the jaw is one of the most common symptoms of TMJ. The pain may be felt in one or both sides of the jaw and may be dull or sharp in nature. The pain may also be accompanied by a feeling of tightness or stiffness in the jaw.
Clicking or Popping Sounds
Many people with TMJ experience clicking or popping sounds when they open or close their mouth. These sounds are caused by the movement of the jawbone over the disc that separates the jawbone from the skull.
Difficulty Chewing or Opening the Mouth
TMJ can make it difficult to chew food or open the mouth wide. Some people may feel like their jaw is “locked” or “stuck” in a certain position, making it difficult to move the jaw at all.
Headaches?
TMJ can cause tension headaches, which are often felt in the temples or the back of the head. These headaches are caused by the muscle tension that is associated with TMJ.
Ear Pain or Ringing
TMJ can cause pain or ringing in the ears. This is because the temporomandibular joint is located close to the ear, and when it is not functioning properly, it can affect the surrounding tissues.
Facial Pain
TMJ can also cause pain in the face, particularly around the cheekbones or temples. This pain may be constant or intermittent and may be accompanied by a feeling of pressure or tightness in the face.
More Questions about TMJ?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any questions about TMJ treatment and address any issues unique to your specific situation. We look forward to seeing you.
Expect Questions
During the exam, our dentist will ask you questions about your medical history and any symptoms you are experiencing in order in pinpoint the source of discomfort.
Expect A Physical Exam
Our dentist will perform a physical examination of the jaw, including checking for pain or tenderness and assessing your range of motion. You will be asked to open and close your jaw in order to check your bite and alignment.
Expect Xrays
We may also take X-rays or other imaging tests to further evaluate the joint and surrounding structures. Based on the findings, your dentist will develop an appropriate treatment plan to help manage your TMJ symptoms.
Ready for a TMJ consult?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any questions you have about TMJ and address any issues unique to your specific situation.
For most patients, TMJ symptoms can be improved with some of the following lifestyle modifications:
If you experiencing TMJ pain, call us to schedule a TMJ evaluation with our Louisville TMJ dentist.
For those with moderate to severe TMJ symptoms, treatment options include:
Arthroscopy, anthrocentesis and jaw surgery are options for the most severe cases of TMJ. These are procedures that are only performed by oral or maxillofacial surgeons and should only be considered after non-invasive options have been exhausted.
If you are suffering from TMJ pain, call us today for a consultation.
TMJ treatment is necessary to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can worsen and cause long-term damage to the jaw joint and surrounding structures. TMJ treatment can improve jaw function and restore proper alignment of the jaw. It can also improve overall quality of life by reducing pain, headaches, and other symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.
Professional TMJ treatment addresses the root cause of your jaw pain and discomfort:
Targeted treatment reduces or eliminates jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort that TMJ disorders cause.
A custom-fitted night guard or splint repositions your jaw to reduce grinding, clenching, and joint stress while you sleep.
Treatment helps restore normal jaw movement, making it easier to eat, speak, and open your mouth without clicking or locking.
Most TMJ disorders can be effectively treated with conservative, non-surgical approaches including appliances, exercises, and lifestyle modifications.
Untreated TMJ can lead to tooth wear, cracked teeth, and worsening joint degeneration. Early treatment protects your teeth and jaw long-term.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, which is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Treatment for TMJ can vary depending on the severity of the disorder, but can include lifestyle modifications, bite correction with splints or mouthguards, injections, arthroscopy and arthrocentesis, and in rare cases, surgery.
There are two main types of dental splints for TMJ treatment: TMJ mouthguards and bruxism (tooth grinding) mouthguards. A TMJ mouthguard is a hard piece of plastic that repositions and stabilizes the jaw, while a bruxism mouthguard can be made of either hard plastic or soft and pliable material to cushion and reduce pain associated with clenching.
Corticosteroid injections help reduce inflammation and pain in the TMJ joint, and can provide temporary relief from TMJ symptoms. The procedure is minimally invasive and takes less than 30 minutes with no recovery time.
Botox is a neurotoxin that paralyzes the muscles in the jaw, preventing clenching and alleviating TMJ symptoms. The procedure is minimally invasive with minimal side effects.
Yes. At our Louisville dental office we offer TMJ treatment to patients from Louisville and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
"Will I need surgery for TMJ?"
The vast majority of TMJ cases do not require surgery. Conservative treatments — custom splints, physical therapy, bite adjustment, stress management, and anti-inflammatory medications — resolve symptoms for most patients. Surgery is only considered when conservative approaches have failed after 6+ months and imaging confirms a structural problem in the joint itself.
"My jaw clicks but doesn't hurt — should I still see a dentist?"
Yes. Painless clicking or popping can indicate disc displacement in the TMJ, which may or may not progress to a painful condition over time. An evaluation now establishes a baseline and allows Dr. William H. Smythe IV to monitor for changes. Early intervention — even simple lifestyle modifications — can prevent the condition from worsening.
"Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?"
Coverage varies significantly by plan. Some dental plans cover occlusal splints, while medical insurance may cover TMJ-related physical therapy or imaging. We help navigate your benefits and provide documentation for pre-authorization when possible.
Cost depends on the size of the case, the materials chosen, and your individual diagnosis. Most cases fall into the low-to-mid four figures per tooth or area treated. We give a written estimate before any work begins.
Insurance: we accept most insurance plans and file claims on your behalf, so you do not have to chase reimbursement. We verify benefits before treatment and explain what is covered.
Payment options: Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, cash, and CareCredit financing — which lets patients spread treatment cost across monthly payments.
Most patients tell us the anticipation was worse than the procedure itself. Treatment is performed under local anesthesia — you will feel the brief pinch of the numbing injection, then nothing more than light pressure during the work itself. If anxiety is keeping you from treatment, talk to us at the consultation; we will pace the visit and explain every step in advance.
William H. Smythe DMD has cared for Louisville families from the same Dixie Highway location since 1973. The office is on Dixie Highway in South End Louisville, with easy access from the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and I-64 — making the drive in from Shively, Pleasure Ridge Park, Valley Station, Iroquois Park, Auburndale, Beechmont, Fairdale, the South End, and across Jefferson County straightforward.
Our practice is family-friendly and accessible — free on-site parking, a wheelchair ramp, and an elevator to our second-floor office at Suite 202. Office hours are Monday through Wednesday 9 AM to 4 PM, Thursday 9 AM to 2 PM, and Friday 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. To schedule, request an appointment online or call (502) 448-2876.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. TMJ disorders have multiple possible causes and treatment outcomes vary by individual. Some cases require referral to an oral surgeon or TMJ specialist. Consult Dr. William H. Smythe IV or a qualified dental professional regarding your symptoms and treatment options. Individual results may vary.
Contact our office to discuss how this treatment can help you achieve your dental health goals.