PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Find Relief with TMJ Treatment in Fremantle
What we do?
Learn How TMJ Treatment Can Help Improve Your Jaw Health and Overall Well-being
A TMJ assessment allows your dentist to examine how your jaw moves, how your bite fits together, and whether muscle tension or habits may be affecting your comfort. This helps build a clearer picture of what may be contributing to your symptoms. Your dental practitioner will discuss their findings with you and outline management options suited to your situation.
TMJ management plans may include guidance on jaw relaxation strategies, custom oral appliances, or lifestyle adjustments. Your dentist will review progress over time and adapt your plan as needed. Individual experiences vary, and your dentist can explain what may be appropriate for your circumstances.
RIGHT CANDIDATE
Are You a Candidate for TMJ Treatment?
Many people seek TMJ assessment when jaw discomfort, tension, or changes in jaw movement begin to affect daily activities. A registered dentist can evaluate symptoms such as ongoing jaw pain, limited opening, or clicking sounds to determine whether further examination is appropriate.
You may also be a good candidate for TMJ assessment if you experience headaches, bite changes, or jaw locking that interferes with normal function. A consultation allows the dentist to review your symptoms, identify contributing factors, and discuss management options tailored to your situation.
Benefits
Explore the Advantages of TMJ Treatment
TMJ assessment involves examining how the jaw joint and surrounding muscles are functioning. A dentist can recommend tailored strategies to support more comfortable movement during daily activities, such as chewing or speaking.
Management options may include splints, exercises, or bite assessments. Your dentist will explain how these approaches work and what outcomes may be possible in your situation.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
Why Choose On Point Dental for Preventative Dental Care
Thorough Check-Ups and Cleanings
Our preventative appointments include examinations of teeth, gums and oral tissues, along with professional cleaning to remove plaque and calculus. Diagnostic tools help identify potential concerns early, when treatment may be simpler. We discuss any findings with you and outline practical steps you can take to support ongoing oral health between visits, helping maintain long-term dental wellbeing.
Patient Education and Guidance
We take time to explain clinical findings and demonstrate appropriate brushing and flossing techniques. Personalised recommendations consider your lifestyle, diet and oral health history. Clear communication supports understanding of how daily habits influence dental outcomes, helping you manage your oral health confidently and make decisions that align with long-term preventative goals. Questions are always encouraged during appointments.
Family-Friendly Environment
Our clinic welcomes patients of all ages, offering preventative care tailored to children, adults and seniors. We coordinate appointments for families where possible and accept major health funds to support access. Flexible scheduling, including Sundays, helps busy households maintain regular check-ups, building useful dental habits early and supporting continuity of care in a comfortable, familiar environment.
New Patient Special Offer
$299
Dental Package Available for New Patients: Complete Preventive Care Services in One Appointment
HEALTH FUNDS & PAYMENT OPTIONS
Quality Dental Care that Fits Your Budget
HBF Member Plus Benefits
- Eligible HBF Member Plus members can receive reduced gap payments on many dental services.
- We process your health fund claim on the spot, and you’ll pay only the gap amount.
- Our team can check your cover and provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
- Being a preferred provider means we meet HBF's quality and service standards, giving you added security in your care.
HBF Member Plus preferred provider status allows eligible members to access reduced payments. Terms and conditions apply.
NIB First Choice Benefits
- NIB First Choice members may receive higher benefits and lower gap payments when they visit our clinic.
- We submit your claim directly to NIB, making the process straightforward and reducing paperwork for you.
- Our reception team can explain your NIB benefits and help you understand what's included in your cover.
- We're committed to transparent pricing, so you'll know your expected costs before we start any treatment.
Flexible Payment Plans Available
Fund My Dental
YOUR FIRST VISIT
What to Expect When You Visit
On Point Dental
Schedule Your Visit
We Check: Teeth, gums, jaw joints, oral cancer screening, bite alignment, existing dental work
Fill Out Your Patient Forms
What to Bring: Health fund card, Medicare card (if applicable), list of current medications
Detailed Oral Assessment
We Check: Teeth, gums, jaw joints, oral cancer screening, bite alignment, existing dental work
Treatment Plan Discussion
Transparent Pricing: All costs explained upfront, payment plans available, health fund rebates calculated.
Begin Your Dental Care
Ongoing Care: Regular check-ups every 6 months, reminders sent, family appointments coordinated
THE TEAM
Our Friendly Team - Meet The Faces Behind Your Smile
Our dental team brings diverse training and experience to provide quality care, and they’re supported by our skilled dental assistants and administrative team, who help make your visit run smoothly.
Credentials
Credentials
Credentials
Dr Ahlawat is a certified Invisalign provider with experience across multiple countries, offering cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic treatment, and supportive care for patients who feel anxious about dental visits.
Credentials
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMJ treatment, and how does it work?
TMJ treatment focuses on addressing issues with the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. This joint enables essential movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint isn’t functioning properly, you may experience pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty opening your mouth. Treatment may help manage discomfort and support jaw function in some patients.
The approach to TMJ treatment varies depending on your specific situation and the cause of your symptoms. During a consultation, your dentist will first assess your jaw movement, bite alignment, and any contributing factors. Treatment options may include a custom splint, exercises, or a bite assessment. Some patients report improved symptom management with treatment, though individual results vary.
How do I know if I need TMJ treatment?
TMJ disorders can present in various ways, and symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly. If you’re experiencing ongoing jaw discomfort or functional issues, you may wish to discuss your symptoms with a registered dentist to determine if an assessment is appropriate. Here are some common signs that may indicate you could benefit from TMJ treatment:
- Persistent jaw pain or tenderness:
You may notice discomfort in your jaw joint, particularly when chewing, speaking, or opening your mouth wide. - Difficulty or discomfort when opening your mouth:
If you find it challenging to open your mouth fully, or if it feels stiff or restricted, this can be a sign of TMJ dysfunction. - Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds:
You might hear or feel them when you move your jaw, though not everyone who experiences them requires treatment. - Frequent headaches or facial pain:
TMJ disorders can sometimes contribute to tension headaches or pain that radiates through your face and neck. - Jaw locking or catching:
Your jaw may occasionally lock in an open or closed position, or feel like it catches during movement. - Changes in how your teeth fit together:
You might notice that your bite feels different or that your teeth don’t align as they used to.
People often enquire about TMJ treatment in Fremantle when jaw tension affects daily activities such as chewing or speaking. If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, a consultation with a registered dentist can help assess your situation and discuss whether further evaluation may be beneficial.
Can TMJ treatment help with jaw pain?
TMJ treatment may help patients address jaw pain, depending on the underlying cause of their discomfort. The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull, and problems in this area may lead to pain, clicking, or difficulty moving your jaw. Treatment approaches are tailored to each patient’s specific situation after a thorough assessment and diagnosis. Your dentist will assess your symptoms and discuss treatment options for your situation.
Treatment options may include custom-made oral splints, bite adjustments, jaw exercises, or referral to specialists when needed. Some patients experience reduced discomfort with conservative treatments, though outcomes vary between individuals. Some cases respond well to simple management strategies, while others may require more comprehensive care over time. A dental practitioner offering TMJ management in Fremantle can outline various strategies to support jaw function.
What is included in TMJ treatment?
TMJ treatment is tailored to each patient’s specific needs and symptoms. The approach may vary depending on the severity of your condition and the cause of your jaw discomfort. Here’s what TMJ treatment may include:
- Custom Oral Appliances:
A specially designed splint or mouthguard may be provided to help reduce jaw clenching, protect your teeth, and support proper jaw alignment during sleep. - Bite Adjustment Therapy:
In some cases, minor adjustments to your teeth or dental work may help improve bite alignment. This can potentially reduce strain on the jaw joint. - Pain Management Strategies:
Your dentist may recommend techniques or exercises to help manage discomfort, along with guidance on lifestyle modifications that support jaw health. - Referrals to Specialists:
If needed, your dentist may coordinate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Your dentist will discuss treatment options during your consultation. If you’re seeking TMJ treatment in Fremantle, you’re welcome to contact us to discuss your options.
How long does TMJ treatment take?
The duration of TMJ treatment varies significantly depending on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and how your body responds to care. Treatment response times vary significantly between individuals. Your dentist will discuss a realistic timeframe based on your assessment.
- Initial assessment period:
Your first few appointments focus on diagnosing the cause of your jaw-related issues and establishing a baseline for your condition. - Splint therapy duration:
If a dental splint is recommended, you’ll typically wear it for several weeks to months while your jaw adjusts and symptoms are monitored. - Symptom response time:
Response to treatment varies between individuals. Your dentist will monitor your progress and adjust your care plan as needed based on your specific response. - Ongoing management needs:
Some TMJ conditions require ongoing care rather than a single course of treatment, depending on individual circumstances.
Your dentist will provide a personalised treatment plan and realistic timeframes during your TMJ consultation in Fremantle. Regular follow-up appointments allow your dentist to monitor your response to treatment and adjust your care plan accordingly.
What happens during a TMJ treatment appointment?
Understanding what to expect during your TMJ treatment appointment can help you feel more prepared. At On Point Dental, we take the time to assess your jaw function and discuss suitable treatment options tailored to your needs. Here’s what typically occurs during your visit.
- Initial Assessment and Discussion:
Your dentist will ask about your symptoms, including jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, and any difficulty with jaw movement. This conversation helps us understand how TMJ disorders may be affecting your daily life and what concerns you most. - Physical Examination of the Jaw:
We’ll carefully examine your jaw joints, muscles, and bite alignment to identify areas of tension or dysfunction. This examination may involve feeling the jaw area and observing how your jaw moves when you open and close your mouth. - Diagnostic Records:
Your dentist may take X-rays or other imaging to assess the jaw joint structure and identify any underlying issues. These records help us develop a treatment approach tailored to your specific situation. - Treatment Plan Discussion:
We’ll review our findings and discuss potential treatment options to help manage your symptoms. Your dentist will outline what each option involves, including any associated costs and expected timeframes. - Custom Treatment Fitting (If Applicable):
If a splint or mouthguard is recommended, we may take impressions of your teeth during this appointment. These impressions allow us to create a custom-fitted device that supports your jaw alignment.
A consultation for TMJ management in Fremantle can provide information about your jaw function and discuss whether management options may be appropriate. Your TMJ treatment appointment is designed to be thorough and informative, giving you a clear understanding of your condition. We encourage you to ask questions at any point during your visit so you feel informed and comfortable about your care plan.
Does a mouthguard help with TMJ treatment?
A mouthguard, often called a splint or occlusal appliance, can be part of TMJ treatment for some patients. These devices are custom-fitted to your teeth and may help reduce jaw tension during sleep. They work by repositioning the jaw and preventing teeth grinding or clenching that can worsen jaw-related issues. Your dentist will assess whether a mouthguard is suitable for your specific situation during consultation.
Mouthguards are one option that may be considered as part of a TMJ management approach. They may be used as part of a broader management approach that could include physiotherapy, stress management, or bite adjustments. Treatment suitability and outcomes vary significantly depending on the underlying cause and individual response. We’ll discuss whether a mouthguard is appropriate for you and explain what results you might reasonably expect.
What can I expect from TMJ treatment?
TMJ treatment is tailored to your specific needs and symptoms, as each case varies. Your dentist will assess your condition and recommend an appropriate approach based on your diagnosis. Here’s what you can generally expect during treatment.
- Initial Assessment and Diagnosis:
Your dentist will examine your jaw, bite, and facial muscles to identify the source of your discomfort. This may include reviewing your dental history, discussing your symptoms, and, if needed, taking diagnostic images. - Customised Treatment Plan:
Based on your assessment, your dentist will develop a treatment plan that may include splint therapy, bite adjustment, or exercises to support jaw function. The approach will be explained clearly so you understand each step involved. - Monitoring and Adjustments:
TMJ treatment often requires follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Your dentist will check how you’re responding to treatment and modify the approach if needed to better support your comfort. - Ongoing Support and Guidance:
Your dental team will guide you in managing symptoms at home, including recommendations for jaw exercises, stress management, and dietary modifications. This support helps you maintain improvements and manage discomfort between appointments.
Treatment outcomes vary between individuals, and your dentist will work with you to find the most suitable approach for your situation. If you have concerns about jaw-related issues, book a consultation to discuss your options and what treatment might involve.
Do I need surgery for TMJ treatment?
Conservative treatments are typically the first approach your dentist will recommend. These may include lifestyle modifications, jaw exercises, stress management techniques, and custom-made oral appliances. Some patients report changes in their symptoms with conservative treatment approaches.
Surgical options may be discussed if conservative approaches have been explored. Your dentist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate approach for your situation. Surgical intervention may be discussed if you have structural issues or severe, persistent symptoms. However, every case is different, and your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Can TMJ treatment be combined with other dental work?
TMJ treatment can often be coordinated with other dental procedures, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan. Your dentist will assess your jaw function and overall oral health to determine the most appropriate sequence of care. In some cases, assessing TMJ symptoms before other dental work allows your dentist to develop a coordinated care approach. A consultation allows your dentist to develop a treatment plan that considers your jaw health and other dental concerns.
Combining treatments requires careful planning to avoid placing unnecessary stress on your jaw joints during the healing process. For example, if you need restorative work like crowns or fillings, your dentist may recommend stabilising your bite first. This approach considers how dental work may relate to your jaw’s position. During your consultation, we’ll discuss how different treatments may be coordinated based on your oral health needs.
How should I prepare for TMJ treatment?
Preparing for your TMJ treatment appointment can help support a smooth experience and positive progress with your care. Your dentist will guide you through the specific steps based on your needs, but some general preparations can be helpful. Below are the key preparation steps:
- Document Your Symptoms:
Keep a brief record of when you experience jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort—including any patterns you notice with certain foods or activities. This information helps your dentist better understand your condition and tailor your treatment. - List Your Medications:
Bring a current list of all medications, supplements, and vitamins you’re taking, as some may affect treatment planning or interact with prescribed therapies. Include any over-the-counter pain relief you’ve been using for your jaw symptoms. - Prepare Your Questions:
Write down any concerns or questions you have about the treatment process, expected outcomes, or recovery timeline. This helps you remember to address important points during your consultation. - Arrange Your Schedule:
TMJ treatment appointments may take longer than routine checkups, so plan accordingly and avoid scheduling immediately before important commitments. Some patients experience temporary jaw tenderness following certain procedures, so consider this when planning your day. - Avoid Jaw-Straining Activities:
In the days leading up to your appointment, try to minimise activities that strain your jaw, such as chewing gum, eating hard foods, or clenching your jaw. This can help reduce inflammation and give your dentist a clearer baseline assessment.
Your dental team will provide any additional preparation instructions specific to your treatment plan during your initial consultation.
Can TMJ treatment help if I grind my teeth at night?
TMJ treatment approaches are available for patients who experience nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism). Grinding can strain your jaw joint and muscles, potentially worsening TMJ symptoms over time. Many patients who grind their teeth experience jaw pain, headaches, or tooth wear alongside their TMJ concerns. Your dentist will assess whether treatment options are appropriate for your specific situation.
Your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted occlusal splint or nightguard as part of your treatment plan. This appliance may help protect your teeth from grinding damage while reducing pressure on your jaw joint. Treatment approaches vary depending on your specific situation, and outcomes differ between individuals. You’re welcome to book a consultation to discuss your concerns and explore whether an assessment may be appropriate.
