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Learn what causes TMJ pain, the signs to watch for, and how a careful bite evaluation and a custom guard can bring real relief. Have questions before your visit? Give us a call, and our friendly team will be happy to help.
TMJ Treatment
Eases jaw pain and tension
Fewer clenching headaches
Careful bite evaluation
Custom guards made in-house
Conservative treatment first
Protects your teeth
About the service

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull just in front of each ear. At Bevan Dental, our TMJ treatment in Napa helps when this joint or the muscles around it become strained and painful.

Common signs of a TMJ problem

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking or popping when you open your mouth
  • Headaches around the temples
  • Ear pain without an ear infection
  • A jaw that feels stiff or hard to open fully

What causes it

Clenching and grinding are common causes, along with stress, bite problems, and injury. Often it's a combination of several things, which is why a careful evaluation matters.

How we treat TMJ problems

  1. A careful evaluation. Dr. Bevan checks your jaw joint, muscles, and bite.
  2. A custom guard or splint. A night guard eases the pressure of clenching and protects your teeth.
  3. Bite adjustments, if needed. Small adjustments can take pressure off the jaw when a few teeth hit unevenly.
  4. Simple habits. We'll share easy changes that reduce strain.

Relief without guesswork

Dr. Bevan will only recommend what your jaw actually needs. Read more about common causes in Why do I wake up with jaw pain?

“I'd rather tell you the truth than talk you into something. If you're nervous, we slow down and keep things gentle. If something can wait, I'll tell you it can wait. After more than 25 years, I've learned that being honest and gentle is its own kind of warmth.”

Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan, founder and dentist

Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan

"I'd rather tell you the truth than talk you into something. If you're nervous, we slow down and keep things gentle. If something can wait, I'll tell you it can wait. After nearly three decades, I've learned that being honest and gentle is its own kind of warmth."

About Bevan Dental

TMJ treatment at Bevan Dental

Expert dental care, delivered with honesty and a gentle touch. Dr. Kenneth J. Bevan has practiced dentistry since 1999, and today he runs a calm, small-team practice on Villa Lane in Napa. We see patients one at a time, we work hard to run on schedule, and we take the time to explain your options in plain language.

Jaw pain can have several causes, so we start with a careful look at your jaw joints, muscles, and bite. Dr. Bevan's training places a strong focus on how these work together. We begin with the most conservative options and never push treatment you don't need.

  • 25+ years of experience. Dr. Bevan has cared for Napa smiles for over 25 years, and many of our team members have been with us for years, so you'll see familiar faces at every visit.
  • Trained by the best. Dr. Bevan's advanced training through Spear, Kois, Pankey, and gIDE places a strong focus on how your bite, muscles, and jaw joints work together.
  • Modern technology. iTero scanning, CBCT imaging, and in-house 3D printing help us understand your bite and make precise guards. Better tools mean care that is more precise, more comfortable, and easier on you.
  • Honest, gentle care. We start with the most conservative options and never push treatment you don't need.

Meet the team

“We can always have a laugh, no matter how stressed we are.”

Johann, office manager

“My favorite part is the way we all come together to get everything accomplished, and how we treat our patients like family and friends.”

Shaila, registered dental hygienist

“I realized this was a special place to work when I saw patients come in happy to come to the dentist.”

Carolina, dental assistant

“What I love most about this team is seeing how they treat their patients as their neighbors, as their loved ones.”

Christina, registered dental assistant

“We all get along great. We're like a family, and we're all here to take care of the patients.”

Laura, registered dental assistant

Hear it from our patients

“I've been through a very nervous situation with my teeth, and they've been so kind-hearted, guiding me through each step of the way. It's smooth, it's fun, and I look forward to it.”

Leena S., patient

“The best dentist I've ever had. I'd recommend Bevan Dental to anybody who needs a new dentist, or anybody who's been given advice they're questioning from another dentist.”

Dana B., patient

Contact
Book your TMJ evaluation in Napa, CA
Call to book a TMJ evaluation or ask us about jaw pain. You'll find us at 3434 Villa Lane in north Napa, with plenty of free parking, a short trip from Browns Valley or Silverado.
TMJ Treatment
Trusted by patients
for years
TMJ FAQs
What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull just in front of each ear. When the joint or the muscles around it are strained, you can feel pain, stiffness, or clicking.

What are the signs of a TMJ problem?

Common signs include jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches around the temples, ear pain without an infection, and a jaw that feels stiff or hard to open. Many people notice it most in the morning.

What causes TMJ pain?

Clenching and grinding are common causes, along with stress, bite problems, and injury. Often it's a mix of several. Our post Why do I wake up with jaw pain? explains more.

How do you treat TMJ problems?

It starts with a careful look at your jaw, muscles, and bite. Treatment often includes a custom night guard or splint, small bite adjustments where needed, and simple habits to ease the strain.

Can a bite adjustment help?

Sometimes. If a few teeth hit too hard or unevenly, a small adjustment can take pressure off the jaw. Dr. Bevan will only suggest it if your bite is part of the problem.

What can I do at home to ease jaw pain?

Let your teeth rest apart during the day, avoid gum and very chewy foods, use a warm compress on sore muscles, and cut back on caffeine later in the day. These small changes can make a real difference.

Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?

Coverage for TMJ treatment and guards varies a lot between plans. We accept all major PPO plans and can help you check, and CareCredit is available too.

How do I book a TMJ evaluation in Napa?

Call us at (707) 255-3007 or visit our contact page for more options. You'll find us at 3434 Villa Lane in north Napa, with plenty of free parking.

TMJ Treatment
Honest, gentle care
 is one visit away