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TMJ/Headaches

Holistic dentist in Annandale, VA, provides effective TMJ treatment

Ninety percent of headaches are associated with muscle contraction. Ninety percent of those muscle contraction headaches are TMJ-related and coupled with stress from clenching of the teeth or poor postural habits (eg. forward head position). Dr. Gyu Hwang and his team at Evergreen Dental Wellness in Annandale, VA, provide healthy TMJ treatment that addresses these underlying concerns, for the benefit of the entire body.

What happens to healthy jaw joints?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) gets its name from the two bones which comprise it. The temporal bone of the skull and the mandible (lower jaw) fit together just in front of the ear to form a hinge-like jaw joint. When simply opening and closing the mouth, the TMJ acts as a fulcrum. However, when chewing there is a more complex movement allowing for the grinding action of teeth.

You can observe or palpate this by placing your fingers on these joints and moving your jaw side to side. There should be smooth movement with no unusual sounds as the TMJ moves through its complete range of motion. If clicking, popping, or grating sounds are felt or heard, this indicates the joint is not functioning normally. Such jaw disarticulations can occur from accidents and facial traumas. More commonly, TMJ disorders result from malocclusion (improper bite) due to a disturbed eruption pattern of teeth in children (be sure to visit the Healthy Start page on this website for more information), or to missing or worn-down teeth in adults. Eruption of teeth can be impeded by clenching and bruxing as a reaction to stress – even in young children!
Dentists have long known that jaw dysfunction can cause TMJ symptoms such as:

  • Headaches
  • Neck aches
  • Back pain
  • Earaches
  • Stuffiness or ringing in the ears
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Pain across the shoulders

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching as a reaction to stress, makes the patient a prime candidate for a TMJ disorder. This added tension in the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders can cause pain and spasms. Circulation in these muscles becomes compromised, allowing lactic acid and other metabolic wastes to build up and create trigger points, which can then refer pain to remote areas of the body.

While it is true that stress and muscle contraction cause much of the pain associated with TMJ syndrome, a major source of that stress and muscle tension is an imbalance of jaw and head posture. To achieve long lasting relief, one must correctly position both the jaw and head. An orthopedically designed oral appliance fabricated by a trained dentist can correct the jaw position, relieving pain and dysfunction of the TMJ and its associated muscles. Head and neck posture may be further helped with chiropractic, osteopathic, physical therapy, and trigger point therapy.

Where to find non-surgical TMJ treatment in Annandale, VA

We are fortunate at Evergreen Dental Wellness to have extensive training in the non-surgical treatment for TMJ pain relief. We enjoy close working relationships with other highly skilled professionals – when needed – offering a true multidisciplinary approach to resolve even the most chronic TMJ challenges.

Evergreen Dental Wellness is accepting new patients seeking relief from TMJ problems and headaches in Annandale, VA. Call 703-215-9630 to schedule your visit today.

What exactly is a TMJ appliance and how does it work?

What exactly is a TMJ appliance and how does it work?

At Evergreen Dental Wellness, we’re all about holistic, mercury-free dental care that goes hand-in-hand with your overall health and wellbeing. One of our unique treatments is the use of Temporomandibular Joint, or TMJ, appliances.

So, what’s a TMJ appliance? Well, it’s also known as an occlusal or bite appliance. It’s a special device that you put in your mouth and usually wear when you’re sleeping. The appliance works by shifting your jaw and easing pressure on the Temporomandibular Joint. That’s the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. By doing this, it can greatly lessen the pain and discomfort that comes with TMJ disorders. This could be headaches, jaw pain, or even having a tough time opening and closing your mouth.

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, we make these appliances to fit your mouth just right, making sure they’re as comfortable and effective as possible. Using a TMJ appliance can be a non-invasive way to manage your TMJ symptoms and better your quality of life.

We’re proud to offer this service to our patients in places like Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Virginia, and even Rockville and Chevy Chase, MD. If you or someone you know is dealing with TMJ symptoms, we’d love for you to give us a call at (703) 256-4441. Our team is ready and waiting to help you on your path to a healthier, pain-free life.


How do TMJ appliances help in relieving jaw pain and discomfort?

How do TMJ appliances help in relieving jaw pain and discomfort?

At Evergreen Dental Wellness, we’re all about holistic, mercury-free dental care that’s tailored to you. We specialize in a range of treatments, including TMJ appliances, which are great for easing jaw pain and discomfort.
So, how do these TMJ appliances work? Well, they help reposition your jaw and take the pressure off your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ for short. This joint is what connects your jaw to the bones at the front of your skull, right by your ears. It’s what lets you move your jaw up, down, and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. When there are issues with your jaw or the muscles controlling it, it’s known as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. This can lead to pain in your jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement.
The TMJ appliances we offer at Evergreen Dental Wellness are made just for you, to fit your mouth perfectly. They help correct your jaw alignment, reduce muscle tension, and stop teeth grinding, which are all common causes of jaw pain and discomfort. By using these appliances, you can really feel a difference in your symptoms and boost your overall oral health.
We know everyone’s needs are different, and we’re dedicated to giving you personalized care to get the best results. If you’re in or around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Rockville, or Chevy Chase, give us a call at (703) 256-4441. We’d love to tell you more about our TMJ appliances and how they could help you. Our team is always here to answer your questions and guide you on your journey to better oral health.


Can you explain how Evergreen Dental Wellness ensures a holistic approach in their treatments?

Can you explain how Evergreen Dental Wellness ensures a holistic approach in their treatments?

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, we’re all about a holistic approach to dentistry. We firmly believe that your oral health is deeply connected to your overall health. We know that every patient is different, and we’re committed to offering personalized care that considers your whole wellbeing, not just your dental health.
A major part of our service is providing TMJ appliances. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ, can lead to a variety of symptoms, like jaw pain, headaches, and even trouble chewing and speaking. Our TMJ appliances are specifically designed to relieve these symptoms and enhance your quality of life, all in line with our holistic philosophy.
We’ve made a conscious decision to offer mercury-free dentistry because we believe it’s a safer and more sustainable option for both our patients and the environment. This means that our TMJ appliances, along with all our other treatments, are free of mercury and any other potentially harmful substances.
We’re ideally located for folks living in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas in Virginia, and also Rockville and Chevy Chase in Maryland. We’re dedicated to making our holistic, mercury-free dental services available to as many people as we can.
We’re always happy to welcome new patients and we’d love for you to give us a call at (703) 256-4441 to find out more about our approach and how our TMJ appliances could benefit you. At Evergreen Dental Wellness, your health is our top priority. We can’t wait to help you achieve a healthier, brighter smile.


I've heard that your office is metal-free and doesn't use fluoride. Can you tell me more about this?

I've heard that your office is metal-free and doesn't use fluoride. Can you tell me more about this?

Sure, I’d love to explain. Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, our approach to dentistry is holistic. This means we think about how your dental health affects your entire body. We aim to use methods and materials that are not only effective but also safe and compatible with your body.
One way we do this is by being a mercury-free dental practice. We don’t use amalgam fillings, which contain mercury, because of the potential health risks that this heavy metal can pose. Instead, we use materials of high quality that are biocompatible and safe for your body.
When it comes to fluoride, even though it’s commonly used in many dental practices, we choose not to use it because of the potential health risks that can come with too much fluoride exposure. We believe there are safer, more natural ways to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health.
One of the treatments we offer is the use of TMJ appliances. These are devices made to order that help to properly align the jaw and relieve symptoms of TMJ disorders, like jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
We’re proud to offer our services to folks living in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Virginia, as well as Rockville and Chevy Chase, MD. If you’re on the lookout for a holistic, mercury-free approach to your dental health, we’d be thrilled to have you at Evergreen Dental Wellness. Feel free to give us a call at (703) 256-4441 if you have any more questions or if you’d like to set up an appointment.


What makes your TMJ treatments different from those offered by traditional dentists?

What makes your TMJ treatments different from those offered by traditional dentists?

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, we take a unique approach to TMJ treatments that really sets us apart from your regular dentist. We’re all about holistic, mercury-free dentistry, which means we’re looking at your total health and wellness, not just your teeth and gums.
When it comes to our TMJ appliances, we make sure they’re tailor-made for each patient. This guarantees they’re comfortable and effective. We know everyone’s different, so we aim to give personalized care that gets to the root of your TMJ problems, instead of just dealing with the symptoms.
And guess what? Our office is right in Annandale, Virginia. That makes us super easy to get to if you live in or around Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Rockville, or Chevy Chase.
We’re all about creating a warm and caring space where you can feel comfortable talking about your concerns and needs. Our team is 100% committed to giving you the best care possible and making sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
So, if you’re having trouble with TMJ and you’re looking for a holistic, patient-focused approach to treatment, give us a call at (703) 256-4441. We’re here to help you get your dental health on track and improve your overall quality of life.


I'm curious about the use of ozone and laser in patient treatment. Can you explain how they are used and their benefits?

I'm curious about the use of ozone and laser in patient treatment. Can you explain how they are used and their benefits?

Sure, I can definitely explain that for you. We’re Evergreen Dental Wellness, a holistic and mercury-free dentistry practice. We use advanced technologies like ozone and laser in our treatments.
Ozone therapy is a groundbreaking treatment that helps us manage oral diseases in a non-invasive, pain-free way. Ozone is a naturally occurring gas with strong disinfecting properties. When we apply it to the mouth, it can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This helps prevent and manage conditions like gum disease, root canal infections, and cavities. It also promotes healing and tissue regeneration, making it a great addition to surgical procedures.
On the other hand, laser dentistry is a precise and efficient way to carry out many dental procedures. The advantage of laser dentistry is that the dentist can control the power output and the duration of exposure on the tissue, be it gum or tooth structure. This allows for treatment of a highly specific area without damaging the surrounding tissues. It’s particularly beneficial in treatments like gum reshaping, cavity removal, and teeth whitening.
In addition to these, we offer TMJ appliances. These are designed to relieve the symptoms of TMJ disorders. These appliances can help reduce jaw pain, headaches, and other discomforts associated with TMJ disorders.
We’re conveniently located for patients living in and around Annandale,


How do you ensure patient comfort during the TMJ treatment process?

How do you ensure patient comfort during the TMJ treatment process?

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, we know how important comfort and care are when it comes to dental treatments, and that’s especially true for TMJ appliances. We’re a holistic and mercury-free dental practice, and we make it a priority to use treatments that are not just effective, but also gentle and mindful of your overall well-being.
For TMJ treatments, our process begins with a thorough consultation. This lets us get a clear understanding of your unique concerns, symptoms, and goals. We then use this information to create a treatment plan that’s tailored just for you, one that’s aimed at reducing discomfort and maximizing results.
During the treatment, we use the latest technology and techniques to make sure the procedure is as comfortable as it can be. Our team is made up of highly trained and experienced professionals who are experts at administering TMJ appliances, and we take every step possible to ensure you’re relaxed throughout the process.
After the treatment, we’ll give you clear instructions on how to care for and manage your TMJ appliance. We’re always here for follow-up appointments and to answer any questions you might have. Our goal is to give you a treatment that not only relieves your symptoms but also enhances your overall dental health.
We’re conveniently located for people living in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Virginia, Rockville, and Chevy Chase, MD. We’d love for you to come and experience the difference of holistic, patient-centered care at Evergreen Dental Wellness.
If you want more information or to schedule a consultation, just give us a call at (703) 256-4441. We’re looking forward to helping you achieve dental wellness.


What should I expect during my first visit for a TMJ appliance at Evergreen Dental Wellness?

What should I expect during my first visit for a TMJ appliance at Evergreen Dental Wellness?

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, our commitment is to holistic and mercury-free dentistry, and that includes offering TMJ appliances. If you’re a new patient coming to us for a TMJ appliance, you can look forward to a thorough and personalized approach to your dental care.
When you first arrive, our welcoming team will help you with any necessary paperwork. Then, we’ll sit down for a detailed chat about your medical history, your dental health, and any specific symptoms you might be dealing with that are related to TMJ disorders. This step is really important because it helps us get to know your individual needs and create a treatment plan that fits with your overall health and wellness goals.
After that, we’ll carry out a careful examination of your mouth, paying special attention to your jaw joints, muscles, and teeth. We might also use some high-tech diagnostic tools like digital X-rays to get a detailed view of your TMJ’s condition. This thorough assessment allows us to figure out how severe your TMJ disorder is and what type of appliance would work best for you.
Once we’ve gathered all the information we need, we’ll go over the findings with you and explain the different kinds of TMJ appliances that are out there. We’ll suggest the one that we think will be the best fit for you, taking into account your comfort, your lifestyle, and the severity of your condition. We’ll also tell you how to use and look after your appliance, and give you an idea of when you can expect to see some improvement.
At Evergreen Dental Wellness, we’re big believers in educating our patients. We’ll take the time to answer all your questions and make sure you understand why the TMJ appliance is beneficial. Our aim is to give you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your dental health.
We’re easy to get to for residents in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Virginia, Rockville, MD, and Chevy Chase, MD. We’d love for you to come and experience our holistic approach to dental wellness. To book your first visit, just give us a call at (703) 256-4441. We’re excited to join you on your journey towards the best possible dental health.


Can you tell me more about the long-term benefits of using a TMJ appliance?

Can you tell me more about the long-term benefits of using a TMJ appliance?

Sure thing. I’d be glad to share more about the lasting benefits of using a TMJ appliance. We at Evergreen Dental Wellness are experts in holistic and mercury-free dentistry, and one of our main services is offering TMJ appliances. TMJ appliances, also referred to as occlusal or orthotic appliances, are specifically made to ease the pain and discomfort linked to Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJD. This disorder can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and trouble opening and closing the mouth. One of the major long-term benefits of using a TMJ appliance is the relief from these painful symptoms. By aligning your jaw correctly, these appliances can help lessen muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and avoid further joint damage. This not only provides immediate relief but also helps in stopping the progression of TMJD. Moreover, TMJ appliances can help prevent wear and tear on your teeth caused by grinding or clenching, a common problem for those with TMJD. This can protect you from potentially expensive dental repairs down the line. Finally, TMJ appliances can enhance your overall quality of life. TMJD can affect your ability to eat, talk, and even sleep comfortably. By managing your symptoms with a TMJ appliance, you can get back to your regular daily activities without any discomfort or pain. If you’re residing in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas in Virginia, or Rockville and Chevy Chase in Maryland. Please feel free to contact us at Evergreen Dental Wellness. Our phone number is (703) 256-4441. We’re dedicated to giving you the best holistic dental care.


What steps does Evergreen Dental Wellness take to ensure the safety and effectiveness of its TMJ treatments?

What steps does Evergreen Dental Wellness take to ensure the safety and effectiveness of its TMJ treatments?

Here at Evergreen Dental Wellness, we put your safety first and strive for the best results in our TMJ treatments. We’re all about holistic and mercury-free dentistry, making sure you get the top-notch care you deserve. When it comes to TMJ treatment, we start with a thorough checkup. We examine your jaw, teeth, and muscles to figure out how serious your TMJ disorder is. This check-up helps us come up with a treatment plan that’s just right for you. We use the latest and greatest TMJ appliances to help ease TMJ disorder symptoms. These appliances are made just for you, so they fit your mouth perfectly, giving you the best comfort and results. We keep a close eye on how you’re doing and tweak things as needed to make sure the appliance is doing its job. Being a holistic dental practice, we look at the big picture of your health. We know that things like stress, diet, and your overall health can play a part in TMJ disorders. That’s why we give advice on lifestyle changes that can help you manage TMJ symptoms. Our Evergreen Dental Wellness team is fully trained and has a wealth of experience in giving TMJ treatments. We stick to strict safety rules and use cutting-edge technology to make sure our treatments are safe and effective. We’re in a handy location for patients living in and around Annandale, Arlington, Alexandria, Washington DC, Fairfax, Falls Church, Reston, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Manassas in Virginia, and Rockville and Chevy Chase in Maryland. If you’re having TMJ disorder symptoms, we urge you to give us a call at (703) 256-4441. We’re dedicated to helping our patients reach the best dental health and wellness.


We are fortunate at Evergreen Dental Wellness to have extensive training in the non-surgical treatment for TMJ pain relief. Call Now

New Patients:

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for an appointment with Dr. Gyu Hwang, to break the cycle of jaw problems and pain.

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