Relieve TMJ pain for good and restore healthy function

Chronic migraines, tinnitus, frequent ear infections, an aching back, neck, and shoulders, and a surprising array of other conditions may be rooted in the jaw joints. Specifically, our veteran dentist in Rohnert Park, Dr. Wayne Sutton, is extensively trained to accurately diagnose and effectively and conservatively treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or disorders. These conditions have many causes and are associated with numerous symptoms. Getting to the root cause is the start of resolving pain and other functional issues that can interfere with your day-to-day life and quality of life. 

World-class TMJD services in Sonoma County, California

Sonoma Smiles takes great pride in developing long-term, trusted relationships with individuals throughout the area. These relationships are built partly on regular visits to our office near Sonoma State University. During these visits, Dr. Sutton may find telltale signs of bruxism (chronic tooth grinding). The force from habitually grinding the teeth, usually while sleeping, can cause chips or excessive wear and tear to dental restorations. Additionally, bruxism is associated with TMJ symptoms. 

In addition to some of the problems noted above, TMJD sufferers may express concern about: 

  • Jaw and facial pain 
  • Jaw stiffness 
  • Problems opening and closing the mouth (jaw locking)
  • “Noisy” mouth; for instance, popping and clicking sounds when moving the jaws
  • Painful chewing 
  • Dizziness
  • Tingling 

Dr. Sutton may notice these and other symptoms during your routine check-up. It is also important that you keep him abreast of any changes, including the presence of specific symptoms and their severity. Our practice’s skill is complemented by advanced diagnostic tools, which can be employed to pinpoint the cause and nature of your concerns. Any time the jaw joints on either side of our face are stressed, there is the possibility of developing TMJD. Relief from the pain and proper resolution of symptoms means getting to the source of that pain. In addition to bruxism, Dr. Sutton may find that the joints and interconnected tissues are stressed due to imbalances – such as misaligned teeth and poor “bite,” or old or worn dental restorations. Since many oral and maxillofacial conditions are associated with TMJ dysfunction, you are at the right place for effective care. 

Depending on what Dr. Sutton determines, he may customize an oral appliance to ease the force produced on the teeth and mouth from chronic bruxism. Other devices can be designed to alter the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. So, your back teeth won’t touch when you brux, which aids in reducing the pressure placed on the joints and symptoms such as headaches. Some patients may even benefit from relaxation exercises to relax the muscles and therapies to strengthen muscular tissue. Orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign®, and replacing worn fillings, crowns, and other restorations may be just what you need to reduce or eliminate your reliance on pain meds – for real relief from TMJDs.

Call (707) 868-0666 to schedule your appointment at our Rohnert Park, CA office or request an appointment at any time on this website (visit the “schedule online” button). We’ll see you soon!

Dr. Sutton is one of the premier cosmetic dentists in Sonoma County

About Dr. Wayne Sutton

A renowned cosmetic dentist in Sonoma County, Dr. Sutton has over 20 years of experience and maintains a standard of excellence at his implant center using the strongest dental implant bridge currently available to provide predictable full mouth dental implant reconstructions.

Dr. Sutton received his postgraduate at The Pacific Aesthetic Continuum in San Francisco and his doctorate and three years of experience as a clinical instructor from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1997, where he was the only one to receive the “Clinical Excellence Award”. He also studied Advanced Occlusion at the Hornbrook Group and earned his Fellowship in the Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics.

Today, Dr. Sutton takes over 4 times the annual continuing education requirements to maintain his license. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (awarded his Fellowship), the Academy of General Dentistry (Fellowships status), the American Dental Implant Association (Diplomat status), the American Dental Association, the American Academy for Dental Sleep Medicine, and is a select cosmetic dentist recognized as an Official Dentist of the Mrs. Globe – Mrs. USA Pageants.