TMJ Treatment Eugene

World-Class TMJ Treatment from a Trained Expert

Three women laughing together after T M J treatment in Eugene

As a leader in both the research and treatment of TMJ disorder (TMJD), Dr. Sutter brings unmatched knowledge and expertise to his patients looking for pain-relieving care. He has intentionally equipped his office with a number of highly advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies to provide his patients with a streamlined and effective diagnosis and treatment experience. To receive the much-needed, quality care you deserve to get your jaw back in good functional condition, call our dental office today for world-class TMJ treatment in Eugene.

Why Choose Smile Institute for TMJ Treatment?

  • Mastership – International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics
  • Lead Researcher & Lecturer on Disclusion Time Reduction (DTR) Therapy
  • Editor in Chief of Advanced Dental Technologies & Techniques

What Is TMJ Disorder?

Illustrated model of the skull and jaw joint

TMJ disorder, also called temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that impacts between 5 and 12 percent of people according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research—that’s millions! It can occur in patients across all ages and lead to a variety of symptoms that make daily life difficult and uncomfortable, including:

  • Tenderness in and around the jaw joints
  • Chronic headaches or migraines
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening and closing the mouth
  • Lockjaw
  • Pain in the head, neck, shoulder, or back
  • Facial pain
  • Teeth grinding and clenching, especially at night
  • Ear pain or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

DTR Treatment for TMJ Disorder

Dental patient hooked up to electrodes while having their mouth scanned

DTR therapy, or Disclusion Time Reduction, is an advanced treatment for TMJD that Dr. Sutter has both researched and provided for his patients for years. In fact, every year he attends a global gathering of leaders in his field to lecture at the DTR Summit.

This specialized therapy uses our T-Scan NOVUS technology and EMG to evaluate occlusal forces related to muscle activity, helping determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. In cases where a patient’s pain and discomfort are due to hyperactive, misfiring muscles while biting, DTR can be used to adjust and refine your muscle activity. This is far more accurate than traditional methods of using blue marking paper to measure your bite.

Other TMJ Treatment Options

Dentist holding a model of the teeth

In addition to DTR therapy, Dr. Sutter also offers occlusal adjustment and splints. Occlusal adjustment involves measuring your bite to make sure that no past dental work, like fillings or crowns, is causing one jaw joint or side of your face to work harder than the other, causing strain and pain. Occlusal splints are custom-made orthotic devices that not only protect your teeth from nightly grinding, but also readjust your jaw in a natural, more comfortable position as you sleep, relieving the tension and gradually causing your symptoms to dissipate.