The injury or inflammation in the temporomandibular joint impact the jaw muscles and nerves leads to TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone and the skull, and it allows the jaw to move when people talk, yawn, or make another jaw movement. TMJ therapy addresses pain and functional loss or limitation of the jaw. We develop a customized treatment plan designed to improve your quality of life, restore normal function, and prevent other oral health issues.

TMJ disorder occurs in patients with chronic stress in the temporomandibular joint. The stress leads to pain and other symptoms that disrupt normal jaw function. We aim to address the core cause of TMJ disorder to help you find lasting healing. Leading Factors for TMJ Disorder Teeth grinding (bruxism) Teeth or jaw clenching A misaligned bite Missing teeth Broken or otherwise damaged teeth Previous dental work Trauma or injury to the teeth or jaw Inflammation caused by certain illnesses, like rheumatoid arthritis Stress

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

Frequently, patients experience symptoms that may seem unrelated, like headaches and popping in the jaw joint. TMJ symptoms may occur for years before a patient experiences symptoms severe enough to seek help. If you experience TMJ symptoms that cause discomfort and disrupt your daily life, contact Atlanta Smiles. Jaw pain or feeling of stiffness in your jaw Jaw clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening your mouth Jaw locking when opening your mouth Misaligned bite Frequent headaches or neck aches Ringing in your ears or tinnitus Difficulty chewing Hearing problems Broken, worn, or damaged teeth due to bite problems Swelling on the side of your face Dizziness Sinus pain Toothaches

How is TMJ Diagnosed?

TMJ symptoms are often similar to symptoms for other conditions, such as arthritis or gum disease. It’s essential to receive an accurate diagnosis for TMJ disorder to develop an effective treatment plan. To identify the source of your pain, we conduct a physical exam of your jaw joint, mouth and teeth. We look for tenderness, swelling, and limited range of motion in the jaw. We also listen for clicks, pops, or grating sounds when the jaw moves. We may recommend x-rays or other scans as part of the diagnosis. Once we confirm the TMJ diagnosis, we develop a detailed treatment plan to address your specific condition.

NTI-tss Plus® (Migraine & Clenching Prevention Appliance)

NTI-tss Plus® Appliance at Atlanta Smiles & Wellness

If you’re living with migraines, tension headaches, or jaw pain that may be linked to clenching or grinding, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to “just deal with it.” Dr. Dina Giesler is passionate about helping patients get out of pain, and for the right candidates, a custom occlusal appliance can be a simple, drug-free step toward relief.

At Atlanta Smiles & Wellness, we offer the NTI-tss Plus® (Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition Tension Suppression System)—an anterior disclusion device that’s FDA-cleared for the prevention of migraine and tension-type headaches and designed to reduce clenching forces.

What Is the NTI-tss Plus®?

The NTI-tss Plus® is a small, custom dental appliance that fits over the front teeth (upper or lower). Its patented design keeps the back teeth and canines from touching, which can reduce clenching intensity and help protect teeth and supporting structures.

How It Works

When the back teeth are kept out of occlusion, many patients naturally reduce the intensity of clenching—one of the common drivers behind jaw fatigue, facial muscle pain, tension headaches, and some migraine patterns.

Clinical information from the manufacturer notes:

The device is positioned as a drug-free alternative for migraine pain and has been shown to reduce clenching forces.
In a referenced study, 82% of migraine sufferers experienced a 77% reduction in migraine events while using the NTI-tss Plus regularly.

Who May Benefit

An NTI-style appliance may be considered if you have symptoms that appear linked to parafunction (clenching/grinding), including:

Tension-type headaches or migraines
TMD/TMJ discomfort
Tooth wear from clenching
Muscle pain associated with parafunction

Dr. Giesler will evaluate your bite, muscles, joint function, and dental history to determine whether an NTI-tss Plus® (or a different type of appliance) makes the most sense for your specific situation.

What to Expect at Atlanta Smiles

Consultation & exam to identify whether clenching/TMD may be contributing to your headaches
Impressions / digital records for a precise fit
Delivery & adjustment visit to ensure comfort and proper function
Follow-ups to monitor progress, muscle response, and appliance wear

Find Relief from Migraines and TMJ Related Jaw Clenching from Atlanta Smiles

If you’re experiencing jaw tension, clenching, or headache patterns that may be bite-related, schedule a visit and let’s talk through options. There is no reason to live with jaw- and clenching-related migraines anymore when solutions may be this approachable.

Call (404) 262-7733 to make an appointment to see Dr. Giesler or schedule your consultation today.