Treating the TMJ should primarily focus on decompressing the joint and satisfying the functional needs of the associated muscles and other surrounding tissues.  We can accomplish this by finding the optimal jaw position, using TENS relaxation and electrodes that measure the activity of key muscles involved.  Once recorded, we can make a removable bite splint called an orthotic, that directs the patient into this jaw position when biting.  We create both a daytime orthotic and a nighttime appliance to maintain this position.  For many patients, this will provide adequate relief and, after a few months of therapy, they continue onward wearing only the nighttime appliance.  More definitive treatments can involve physiologic orthodontics or bite correction using porcelain veneers and crowns.