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General & preventive

Help for jaw pain & TMJ

Jaw pain, clicking, headaches or grinding? We'll help you understand why, and find real relief.

Gentle, no-judgement care  ·  40+ years local

Service image: jaw pain & TMJ
In plain language

What TMJ and grinding problems are

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is your jaw joint. When it's strained, often by clenching or grinding, it can cause jaw ache, clicking, headaches and worn teeth.

We assess the cause rather than just the symptom, and manage it gently, often starting with a custom night splint.

Why it's worth addressing

Grinding and clenching quietly wear down, crack and loosen teeth, and the headaches and jaw pain affect daily life and sleep. Managing it early protects your teeth and your comfort.

Relief from pain

Ease jaw ache, headaches and tension.

Protect your teeth

Stop grinding wearing teeth down or cracking them.

Sleep and function better

Many people rest and chew more comfortably.

Is this right for you?

This may be for you if…

  • You wake with jaw ache or headaches
  • Your jaw clicks, catches or feels tight
  • You know (or have been told) you grind or clench
  • Your teeth look worn or feel sensitive
  • You hold a lot of tension in your jaw
A calm, step-by-step process

How we help, step by step

1

Understand the cause

We assess your jaw, bite and grinding patterns.

2

Examine your teeth

We check for wear, cracks and sensitivity.

3

A tailored care plan

Often a custom night splint, plus simple strategies.

4

Fit your splint

Made to your bite for comfort and protection.

5

Review

We check how you're going and fine-tune.

Honest about what to expect

What to expect

A night splint takes a few nights to get used to, and symptoms often ease over weeks rather than overnight. We'll be honest that TMJ is managed rather than instantly cured, and we'll support you through it.

Thinking about jaw pain care?

Book a visitRequest a callback

“I haven’t been to the dentist in years. I was embarrassed and anxious. The team here made me feel completely at ease — no judgement, just kindness.”

How we look after nervous patients →

No surprises

Clear on cost, before anything begins

You'll get a clear written estimate before anything goes ahead, with time to think it over. We claim through HICAPS, and payment plans are available.

See our fees & health fund information →

Common questions

Questions about jaw pain & tmj

What causes TMJ pain?

Often stress, clenching, grinding or bite issues, we'll work it out together.

Will I need surgery?

Very rarely, most cases are managed simply and conservatively.

Do you treat grinding?

Yes, commonly with a custom night splint.

How long until I feel better?

It varies, many people improve within a few weeks.

Get in touch

We're here whenever you're ready

Book a consultation and we'll be in touch within one business day.

East St Kilda Dental
364 Dandenong Rd, East St Kilda VIC 3183

Opening hours

  • Mon – Thu8.30am – 4.00pm
  • Friday8.30am – 4.30pm
  • Saturday (monthly)8.00am – 4.00pm
  • SundayClosed

Caring for families on the corner of Dandenong Road since 1980, across Melbourne's inner south-east.

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We respond to all enquiries within one business day. Prefer to call? (03) 9527 3678