Gnathology studies jaw movement, neuromuscular balance and the relationship between the teeth, joints and muscles. When this system becomes unbalanced, the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) may experience excessive load even during everyday actions such as speaking or chewing. This imbalance can create a chain of symptoms including muscle tension, sleep disturbances, clicking, neck strain and increased tooth wear.
Patients are often surprised that jaw dysfunction does not always manifest as obvious jaw pain. It may present as pressure near the temples, facial fatigue, morning tightness, mild tinnitus or difficulty finding a comfortable bite. Through gnathology and TMJ treatment in Abu Dhabi, we address these issues with precise diagnostics and an individually planned therapeutic approach instead of generic splints or guesswork.
The temporomandibular joints sit just in front of the ears and allow the jaw to open, close and move side-to-side. Because the TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, small imbalances can lead to noticeable symptoms.
Many patients who visit our Al Reem Island clinic share similar experiences:
“I didn’t realise my headaches could come from my bite.”
“I thought clicking was normal.”
“My bite felt slightly off after dental work and gradually other symptoms appeared.”
These insights often indicate a functional imbalance that deserves evaluation.
We review your dental background, orthodontic history, prior injuries, postural habits, lifestyle factors and sleep patterns. This helps us understand how long your system has been under strain.
We assess jaw movement, note clicking or deviation, evaluate muscle tension and identify overloaded structures.
Through digital occlusal scanning and CBCT when needed, we examine how your teeth come together in motion and at rest, detecting bite asymmetries or early signs of dysfunction.
We evaluate clenching, grinding, nail-biting and posture-related habits that contribute to chronic loading of the joints.
This comprehensive approach determines whether you need TMJ rehabilitation, bite adjustment or a combined treatment strategy.
Individually fabricated stabilisation splints ease muscle tension, protect the TMJ and help manage grinding. Many people searching for a TMJ specialist Abu Dhabi begin their treatment with this conservative yet highly effective method.
If the root cause is bite imbalance, long-term correction may be necessary. This can include selective adjustments, orthodontics or restorative treatment that rebuilds worn teeth and restores stability.
We provide guided exercises and targeted protocols that improve movement, relieve tension and re-establish balanced function.
In cases of significant wear or previous restorations that compromise bite balance, we reconstruct the occlusal surfaces using digital planning and functional mock-ups.
For more information, see TMJ specialist Abu Dhabi in our dedicated service: Splint therapy (occlusal guard) for TMJ dysfunction.
You may benefit from gnathologic treatment if you experience:
We often see professionals who work long hours at a screen, frequent travellers and individuals experiencing stress-related symptoms.
Our goal is long-term stability. Successful treatment often results in:
Patients also gain a clearer understanding of how their jaw functions and how to maintain long-term comfort.
Many people undergo MRI, CT or ENT assessments that appear normal, yet still experience discomfort. TMJ disorders are not always visible on imaging because they often stem from functional imbalances rather than structural abnormalities.
Digital occlusal scanning can reveal early asymmetries long before they progress. Recognising these signs early allows for timely intervention and reduces the risk of chronic symptoms.
TRUE SMILE Dental Centre provides a structured, calm environment for patients experiencing jaw discomfort or bite imbalance. Our clinic offers:
This approach has made TRUE SMILE one of the trusted centres for TMJ-focused care on Al Reem Island.
Temporomandibular joint radiograph, single film | 320 (AED) |
Gnathological wax-up | 700 (AED) |
2700-3000 (AED) |
Not necessarily. Occasional clicking without pain or restricted motion may be harmless. However, if the clicking is frequent, accompanied by pain, locking, or jaw deviation, it may indicate joint instability, disc displacement, or muscular imbalance. These are hallmarks of temporomandibular joint dysfunction and should be evaluated by a dentist trained in gnathology. Early diagnosis helps prevent worsening of symptoms and long-term joint damage.
This is more common than you might think. Orthodontic treatment improves alignment, but sometimes the bite still lacks stability or proper function. Post-orthodontic patients may develop TMJ symptoms if final occlusion was not fully balanced. At TRUE SMILE, we assess not just alignment, but also how your bite interacts with the joint and muscles. A gnathologic evaluation can detect hidden bite imbalances and help fine-tune your occlusion for lasting comfort.
Yes, absolutely. Jaw clenching (often unconscious and during sleep) places continuous strain on the masticatory muscles, especially the temporalis, which extends to the temples and forehead. This overuse can lead to tension-type headaches, eye pressure, or even neck stiffness. Patients often wake up feeling like they had a workout in their face. Treating jaw clenching with a customised splint and muscle re-education often leads to a dramatic reduction in headache frequency.
It depends on the cause. Minor or occasional popping may not require intervention. But consistent clicking, especially with pain or restricted movement, suggests displacement of the disc inside the TMJ. Without treatment, it may worsen or evolve into a locked jaw. Our goal is to assess the mechanics of your joint and decide whether conservative treatment like a splint or rehabilitation can restore balance and reduce internal joint strain.
In some cases, yes. Chronic muscle tension from a misaligned bite or overactive chewing muscles can cause slight asymmetries, especially in the lower face. Patients may also notice one side of the face feels more sore or “tight.” By relieving strain and restoring balance between both sides of the jaw and bite, facial harmony can often improve. Severe asymmetries may require further intervention, but many patients notice visual and sensory improvement after gnathologic therapy.
No. Most of our treatments are non-invasive and designed to reduce discomfort, not cause it. Splints are custom-made for comfort and function. Bite adjustments are extremely minimal and only done after precise analysis. TMJ rehabilitation exercises are gentle and tailored to your symptoms. Our approach is always conservative, evidence-based, and aimed at avoiding surgery or irreversible changes whenever possible.
Many patients begin to feel better within two to four weeks, especially when using a splint or following a muscle therapy program. For more complex bite-related issues, full improvement may take several months as the joints and muscles adapt. We regularly monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. Long-term stability is our priority, not just short-term symptom relief.
Hear from the people who trust us with their smiles. Real experiences from our patients in Abu Dhabi.
