In this collection · TMJ & Jaw Pain

TMJ & Jaw Pain

Laser & Photobiomodulation Therapy

Gentle light, used to support comfort.

Photobiomodulation is a low-level, non-cutting therapy considered for selected patients as one part of conservative TMJ care.

Request an Appointment TMJ & Jaw Pain Care

Fotona laser system used for low-level photobiomodulation therapy

How it works

Light, tissue, and the body’s own recovery.

Light reaches tissue

Low-level light is applied over the area of concern — typically the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.

A cellular response

PBM is studied for its effects at the cellular level, with the goal of supporting the tissue’s own recovery processes.

Comfort and function

For selected patients, the aim is reduced discomfort and easier movement as part of broader conservative care.

Response guides the plan

How you respond informs whether PBM continues, changes, or is set aside in favour of something else.

What it may help with

Considered for muscle and joint discomfort.

Whether PBM is appropriate depends on your evaluation. Responses vary, and none of this is guaranteed.

Jaw muscle soreness and facial muscle tension
Discomfort around the joint area
Tightness that limits comfortable opening
Soreness that follows clenching or grinding
Discomfort during an adjustment period with an orthotic
Tension that recurs alongside headaches

Combination care

One component, not the whole plan.

TMJ Orthotics & Splints

PBM is sometimes considered alongside orthotic care, particularly where muscle comfort is part of the picture.

Explore TMJ Orthotics & Splints →

EMFACE for TMJ

A muscle-focused option discussed for selected patients where jaw and facial muscle function are involved.

Explore EMFACE for TMJ →

Myofunctional Therapy

Function and habit patterns influence jaw load, and therapy is considered when the evaluation supports it.

Explore Myofunctional Therapy →

Cranial & Manual Therapy

Gentle hands-on work for jaw, head and neck tension, considered for selected patients. Joint injections and PRF are discussed individually when appropriate.

Explore Cranial & Manual Therapy →

Questions

Questions about laser & PBM therapy.

What is photobiomodulation?

PBM is the application of low-level light to tissue with the goal of supporting comfort and the body’s own recovery processes. It does not cut or remove tissue.

Is this a surgical laser?

No. Surgical lasers cut, remove or reshape tissue and are a different device used for a different purpose. PBM is low-level and non-cutting.

Does it hurt?

Most patients describe gentle warmth or no particular sensation at all. Tell us if anything feels uncomfortable.

Is there downtime?

The therapy itself is not associated with downtime. Anything specific to your situation is discussed at your visit.

How many sessions will I need?

That is individualized. We do not publish a session count, because the right schedule depends on your findings and your response, and it is determined clinically.

How soon might I notice a difference?

Responses vary between patients, and some people notice little change. We reassess honestly rather than assuming a timeline.

Can it be combined with an orthotic?

For selected patients, yes. Combination is a clinical judgement based on your evaluation rather than a default package.

Is it safe?

PBM is a low-level, non-cutting therapy and is generally well tolerated. Your individual suitability is assessed at your visit, including any relevant medical history.

Do I still need other treatment?

Often, yes. PBM is generally one part of conservative TMJ care rather than a replacement for the rest of the plan.

How do I find out if it’s right for me?

An evaluation in Alpine is the honest way to answer that. If PBM is not a sensible fit, we will say so.

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Brittany Johansen. This page is general education, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan.

We see patients at our Alpine, Utah office, including families from Highland, Cedar Hills, American Fork, Lehi and across Utah County.

Related care

Where to go from here.

TMJ & Jaw Pain

The wider picture of conservative, non-surgical TMJ care.

Explore TMJ & Jaw Pain Care →

TMJ Orthotics & Splints

How a custom orthotic differs from a simple nightguard, and who may be a candidate.

Explore TMJ Orthotics →

EMFACE for TMJ

A muscle-focused option discussed for selected patients with jaw and facial muscle involvement.

Explore EMFACE for TMJ →

Find out whether it fits your situation.

A consultation in Alpine, Utah gives you a clear read on what is driving your symptoms and whether photobiomodulation belongs in your plan.

Request an Appointment