A complete library of TMJ / TMD resources at Dentistry On The PATH — conservative, non-surgical care for jaw pain, clicking, headaches, and sleep-disordered breathing with Dr. Yolanda Cruz.
Welcome to our TMJ / TMD section. 25 pages organized into six categories below — covering disorder basics, sleep health, treatment options, diagnostics, self-help, and referrals.
Not sure where to start? The TMJ / TMD Disorder Overview gives you the lay of the land in five minutes.
Learn what TMJ / TMD is, why it's so often missed, and what the warning signs mean.
The full TMJ section starts here — what TMD is and how we treat it.
Read more →Anatomy and definition of the temporomandibular joint and its disorders.
Read more →Joint sounds explained — clicks, pops, and crepitus.
Read more →Why TMD is commonly misdiagnosed as headaches, ear pain, or neck strain.
Read more →How jaw position and airway patency are linked.
Read more →How TMJ disorders overlap with snoring and sleep-disordered breathing.
Conservative, non-surgical care options offered at Dentistry On The PATH.
The full treatment overview — orthotics, Botox, laser, and more.
Read more →Oral appliances and dental sleep medicine for diagnosed OSA.
Read more →Custom-fabricated dental devices for TMJ and bruxism.
Read more →Therapeutic Botox for masseter/temporalis muscle hyperactivity.
Read more →Fotona and Weber laser protocols for jaw, airway, and snoring.
Read more →T-Scan, JVA, CBCT — objective measurement for safer treatment.
Read more →Phased orthopedic approach to TMJ stabilization.
Read more →Hard acrylic stabilization splint for joint protection.
Read more →Two-appliance protocol for disc displacement.
Read more →Conservative management for degenerative and inflammatory TMJ arthritis.
Read more →Acute closed-lock vs. open-lock reduction and recovery.
Read more →RPE / MARPE / MSE — widening the maxilla for airway and bite.
Read more →Why custom fit, thickness, and coverage matter for outcomes.
Read more →What to expect at your first TMJ / TMD examination and follow-up imaging review.
What you can do at home to support TMJ recovery and sleep health.
Information for referring providers and patients being referred to our practice.
Book a focused TMJ / TMD evaluation with Dr. Cruz on the PATH at Bay & Queen. We'll listen, examine, and explain your options before recommending treatment.