REFF Services

Treating Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) in Rancho Mirage

Dr. Christian J. Luzar offers precise diagnostics and customised care to ease jaw pain, spasms, headaches, and bite dysfunction—helping you chew, speak, and sleep without discomfort.

Tired of clicking jaws or morning headaches?

Call (760) 674-8881 or click Schedule My Consultation→ /contact-us to start your TMJ relief plan.

What Is TMJ / TMD?

Temporomandibular joint disorder is a family of conditions affecting the jaw joints, discs, muscles, and ligaments. When these complex hinges malfunction, you may feel pain, hear pops or clicks, or find your jaw temporarily “locks” open or shut. TMJ affects up to 30 % of adults aged 20-40.

Common Symptoms

  • Tenderness in or around the ear and jaw
  • Clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth
  • Limited opening, locking, or “stuck” jaw episodes
  • Pain while yawning, chewing, or speaking
  • Headaches, neckaches, facial fatigue—even mood swings or anxiety

Why Does TMJ Develop?

  • Night-time grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Trauma to the jaw or whiplash injuries
  • Arthritis or disc displacement within the joint
  • Bite misalignment or missing teeth that alter chewing patterns
  • Central pain sensitivity (often overlaps with fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, IBS)

At-Home Tips While You Wait
for Your Appointment

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Apply moist heat or cold packs to sore muscles 15 minutes at a time.
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Eat a soft-food diet and avoid wide yawns or chewy foods.
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Massage jaw muscles gently and practise relaxed breathing.
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can ease acute flare-ups (ask your physician first).
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Accurate Treatment for TMJ

Because causes vary, treatment is personalised and may combine:
  • Medications – anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, analgesics
  • Custom bite splints / night-guards – stabilise your jaw, reduce grinding
  • Physical therapy & behavioural coaching – stretch tight muscles, train new habits
  • Stress management – biofeedback, mindfulness, or brief psychotherapy
  • Cosmetic dentistry – crowns, bonding or orthodontics to balance your bite
  • Surgery – reserved for severe joint degeneration or disc displacement

Ready to Restore

Your Smile?

Reach our friendly team in seconds no phone tree, no hold music.
41-750 Rancho Las Palmas, Suite E-1, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

(760) 674-8881

info@luzar.com
Mon-Thu 8AM - 5PM
Friday by Appointment
© 2025. Christian J. Luzar D.M.D Maxillofacial Prosthodontist All Rights Reserved.
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