TMJ Relief in Denver: How Laser Therapy and Myofunctional Therapy Work Together

February 16, 2026

If you’ve ever experienced jaw pain that makes it hard to chew, speak, or even sleep, you’re not alone. For many people in Denver, TMJ disorder causes daily discomfort that can interfere with nearly every aspect of life.

Traditional treatments offer some relief, but what if there were a modern, non-invasive way to treat TMJ pain and restore your quality of life? At Wynkoop Dentistry, we combine state-of-the-art laser therapy with guided myofunctional therapy to provide breakthrough TMJ relief that targets the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Understanding TMJ Disorder: More Than Just Jaw Pain

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (usually shortened to TMJ or TMD) affects the joints connecting your jaw to your skull, leading to symptoms such as:

  • Jaw pain or soreness, often worsening with chewing
  • Clicking or popping noises while opening or closing the mouth
  • Facial pain, earaches, or tension headaches
  • Lockjaw or limited range of motion in the jaw
  • Neck and shoulder discomfort

TMJ dysfunction is often caused by muscle tension, jaw misalignment, stress-related clenching, or poor oral habits developed over time. While mouthguards and medication may help manage discomfort temporarily, they often fail to correct the underlying issue. That’s where the combination of laser and myofunctional therapy comes in, offering a path to sustainable, long-term relief.

What Is Laser Therapy for TMJ Pain?

Laser therapy for TMJ uses focused light energy to reduce inflammation, relax facial muscles, and boost circulation in and around the jaw joint. At Wynkoop Dentistry, we use the ultra-precise Fotona LightWalker laser system, which delivers safe and gentle energy directly to the problem areas.

Benefits of Laser Therapy Include:

  • Non-invasive, needle-free, and drug-free approach
  • Speeds up healing by increasing blood flow
  • Relieves muscle tension and nerve discomfort
  • No downtime, most patients return to normal activity immediately
  • Cumulative results after just a few short sessions

Laser treatments are entirely painless. Many patients describe it as a warm, relaxing sensation. Most importantly, it’s an advanced therapy supported by research and real-world clinical outcomes that improve both comfort and function.

What Is Myofunctional Therapy, And Why Does It Matter for TMJ?

Myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the tongue, mouth, and face to ensure they work in harmony. Improper function of these muscles often contributes to jaw strain, poor posture, nighttime clenching, and other TMJ triggers.

At Wynkoop Dentistry, our customized myofunctional therapy plans are carefully guided by Dr. Erin Cherry and her skilled team. Through gentle exercises and habit re-training, we help patients improve muscle coordination, develop healthier eating and breathing patterns, and reduce TMJ stress at its source.

What Does Myofunctional Therapy for TMJ Involve?

  • Comprehensive evaluation of oral posture, swallowing, and breathing habits
  • Customized series of daily exercises you can do at home
  • Ongoing expert guidance and adjustments throughout treatment
  • Integration with your laser therapy sessions to ensure maximum results

This holistic approach doesn’t just provide pain relief. It also helps prevent the recurrence of TMJ symptoms by correcting muscle dysfunctions that many traditional treatments overlook.

How These Therapies Work Together for Better Outcomes

While each therapy is powerful on its own, combining laser treatment with myofunctional therapy offers a synergistic effect. Laser therapy addresses symptoms quickly, reducing pain and inflammation, while myofunctional therapy tackles the behavioral and muscular causes. Together, they promote faster healing, minimize relapse, and support long-term joint stability.

Because Wynkoop Dentistry offers both therapies under one roof, patients benefit from a seamless, well-coordinated treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. This integrated model provides a level of care and convenience that few other dental practices in the city can match.

Why Choose Wynkoop Dentistry for TMJ Relief?

As Denver’s first green dental office, Wynkoop Dentistry is proud to lead the way with patient-centered innovation and sustainability. Our practice is known for combining comfort, technology, and comprehensive care, all with a deep respect for your time, wellbeing, and the environment.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • Eco-Friendly Dentistry: We use energy-efficient equipment, paperless systems, and water conservation measures that align with our mission for a healthier planet as well as healthier patients.
  • High-Tech Tools: From laser treatments to EMS Airflow technology and same-day digital crowns, we invest in tools that deliver optimal results with minimal discomfort or downtime.
  • A Calming Experience: With massage chairs, noise-canceling headphones, and warm towels, your appointment feels more like a spa day than a dental visit.
  • Whole Wellness Approach: In addition to treating teeth and gums, we support total-body health with services for sleep apnea, TMJ, and myofunctional therapy.

Every visit is guided by Dr. Erin Cherry’s expertise and our commitment to listening first, so you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your care.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Therapy

How long before I notice results?

Many patients feel significant relief after just a few laser therapy sessions. Combining that with myofunctional therapy further accelerates and sustains those improvements.

Is the treatment safe?

Absolutely. Both the Fotona laser system and our therapy protocols are FDA-approved, non-invasive, and free of side effects when administered by trained professionals like those at Wynkoop Dentistry.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is necessary to get started with TMJ therapy at our office. Simply call our office at (303) 572-4487 to schedule a consultation.

Ready to Get Relief from TMJ Pain?

Don’t let chronic jaw discomfort hold you back from enjoying life. Whether your TMJ symptoms are new or something you've silently endured for years, real relief is within reach. The expert team at Wynkoop Dentistry is ready to create a customized treatment plan using innovative laser and myofunctional therapies, carefully designed around your needs and lifestyle.

To get started, call us today at (303) 572-4487 or book your consultation online. Discover for yourself how a modern, wellness-focused approach can transform your smile, and your health.

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