TMJ in Lincoln, NE
If jaw pain, headaches, or tension are affecting your daily life, we offer personalized TMJ treatment designed to reduce pain and restore healthy jaw movement.
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Same-day appointments
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Walk-ins welcome
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No insurance, no problem. Flexible payment options
What Is TMJ?
Understanding TMJ and how it affects your jaw
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, the jaw joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. This joint controls chewing, speaking, and jaw movement. When the joint, jaw muscles, or surrounding structures do not work together, TMJ disorder can develop.
TMJ disorder may cause pain, stiffness, or popping sounds when you open your mouth. Many patients experience symptoms that affect their teeth, neck, and daily comfort. Without proper care, temporomandibular joint disorder can worsen and impact your quality of life.
Benefits Of TMJ Treatment In Lincoln, NE
How TMJ care supports daily comfort and function.
Who Is A Good Candidate For TMJ Treatment?
Signs that TMJ care may help you.
If you have ongoing jaw discomfort, TMJ treatment may help. Many patients do not realize their symptoms of TMJ connect to the jaw joint.
Common symptoms may include:
TMJ symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Some patients feel discomfort only during stress, while others experience daily pain. A misaligned bite, arthritis, or jaw misalignment may also contribute. When left untreated, symptoms can worsen and affect sleep, focus, and overall health.
If your jaw pain interferes with daily life, we encourage a consultation. Early care helps treat TMD before symptoms escalate.
The Cost of TMJ Disorder Treatment
Finance and insurance.
Star City Dental provides flexible financial options to help patients manage the cost of care. CareCredit financing is available, allowing patients to spread out payments over time. The practice also offers in-house payment arrangements to accommodate individual financial needs, making quality dental care more accessible—especially for patients navigating financial challenges.
The team at Star City Dental assists with insurance to make dental care straightforward and transparent. They can submit claims to most insurance providers, even if the practice is out-of-network. Before appointments, patients can receive complimentary insurance benefits checks to avoid surprise costs and ensure clarity about coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.
For patients without insurance or those seeking affordable dental care alternatives, Star City Dental offers the Star City Dental Savings Program. This in-house program provides discounts on dental services and promotes regular, proactive oral care for families and individuals, making quality dental treatment more attainable for everyone.
The Process Of Getting TMJ Treatment
What to expect at Star City Dental.
Step One: Evaluation and Diagnosis
Dr. Long and Dr. Allen begin with a thorough exam to diagnose TMD. We assess jaw movement, muscles, bite alignment, and symptoms. This helps us understand the cause of your pain and how to treat TMJ disorder safely.
Step Two: Personalized Treatment Plan
We create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. Treatment options may include occlusal splint therapy, occlusal adjustment, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, or oral appliances designed to support the jaw joint.
Step Three: Ongoing Care and Support
We monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed. Our goal is to provide relief, improve function, and help many patients avoid surgery unless it becomes a last resort.
Why Choose Star City Dental?
Professional care and dedication to your smile and oral health.
Our Doctors
- Dr. Long
Dr. Long
Dr. Long, known to patients as Dr. Mimi, brings advanced training, years of teaching experience, and a compassionate approach to every visit. With expertise in cosmetic, comprehensive, and same-day crown dentistry, she delivers efficient, high-quality care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Her background as a faculty educator ensures precise, evidence-based treatment, while her gentle style and clear communication help patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their dental care at Star City Dental.
- Dr. Allen
Dr. Allen
Dr. Mariah Allen blends advanced clinical skill with heartfelt compassion to deliver exceptional dental care. A valedictorian with advanced general dentistry training, she brings confidence and precision to oral surgery, dental implants, endodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and same-day crowns. Her diverse experience across the country sharpens her problem-solving and patient-centered approach.
Patients benefit from expert treatment that eases pain, restores function, enhances smiles, and ensures they feel heard, comfortable, and genuinely cared for every single visit.
- Our Technology
Our Technology
At Star City Dental, advanced technology ensures precise, efficient, and comfortable care for every patient. From digital diagnostics to same-day restorations, the practice integrates cutting-edge tools to enhance treatment outcomes, streamline appointments, and reduce discomfort—making high-quality dental care faster, easier, and more effective for the whole family.
- Digital X-rays
- CEREC or in-office crowns
- CBCT scanner (3D scanning)
- Intraoral camera
What is Lincoln, NE, Saying?
FAQs About TMJ in Lincoln
- Can TMJ cause headaches and neck tension?
Yes. TMJ disorder often causes headaches, neck tension, and muscle pain. The jaw connects to muscles in the neck and skull, so strain in the jaw joint can spread discomfort.
- Is teeth grinding linked to TMJ?
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, places stress on the jaw joint and muscles. Over time, this can lead to TMJ symptoms, worn teeth, and increased pain.
- Will I need surgery for TMJ?
Most patients do not need surgery. Conservative treatments are often effective. Surgical options, such as open joint surgery, are reserved for severe cases when other treatment options fail.
- How long does TMJ therapy take?
Treatment time varies. Some patients feel improvement within weeks, while others need longer care. Consistent treatment and follow-up help ensure lasting results.
- Can TMJ affect sleep or breathing?
Yes. TMJ disorder can affect sleep quality and may connect with sleep apnea in some patients. Proper treatment supports better rest and jaw comfort.
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