Dr. Hunter McAreavy
General dentist
Jaw pain & clicking relief in Westport, Kansas City
Custom night guards that ease jaw pain, popping, clicking and headaches caused by TMJ disorder.
Read our patient reviews on GoogleCould it be TMJ?
Relief for a sore, tight jaw.
Frequent jaw pain or stiffness, popping or clicking when you open your mouth, and headaches can all be signs of TMJ disorder (TMD), a problem with the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. Clenching your jaw at night is one of the biggest reasons it continues and gets worse. At Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Westport, we treat TMD with custom night guards that take pressure off your back teeth and help your jaw relax.
- Custom night guard
- Made to fit your mouth
- Worn while you sleep
- When clenching happens most
- Less pressure
- On your jaw and back teeth
- Exam first
- We check your jaw and bite
Common signs
What TMJ pain can feel like.
- Learn more →
Jaw pain or stiffness
Frequent or intense pain in the jaw.
- Learn more →
Popping or clicking
Sounds when you open or close your mouth.
- Learn more →
Headaches
Frequent headaches or migraines.
- Learn more →
Clenching or grinding
Often at night, when you can’t control it.
- Learn more →
Trouble chewing
Discomfort when you chew, swallow or speak.
How we treat it
How a night guard helps.
A custom night guard works while you sleep, when clenching does the most damage.
| What it does | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Realigns the jaw joint | Eases pressure on the joint |
| Takes pressure off your back teeth | So your jaw can relax |
| Reduces nighttime clenching | One of the biggest reasons TMD gets worse |
| Protects your teeth | From wear caused by grinding |
Your visit
How we treat jaw pain.
Talk it through
We ask about your pain, headaches and when they happen.
Jaw exam
We check your jaw and bite to find the best next steps.
Night guard
We make a custom guard to wear while you sleep.
Follow up
We check how you’re feeling and adjust if needed.
Cost & insurance
Care that fits your budget.
Have insurance?
We’ll help you use your benefits
Call us with your plan details and we’ll check your coverage before your visit.
Contact us →No insurance?
Join our Smile Club
A membership with preventive care included and savings on other treatments.
Explore Smile Club →Bigger treatment?
Flexible payment plans
Ask about options for spreading the cost of your care into monthly payments.
See payment plans →Your care team
The team you’ll meet here.
Dr. Hunter McAreavy leads general dentistry at our Westport office and has a passion for helping patients who feel nervous about the dentist. Whoever you see that day, our hygienists, assistants and care coordinators take the time to explain each step.
★★★★★
“I had a great experience here. Rachel was very personable and professional, and Dr. Hunter was the same.”
Rachel Converse
Registered dental hygienist
Chrissy
Dental assistant
Konner Lawson
Patient care coordinator
Nichole
Patient care coordinator
Meet the whole team
See everyone →What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder, or TMD, is a problem with the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It often causes pain, clicking and headaches.
How does a night guard help?
It realigns the jaw joint and takes pressure off your back teeth, so your jaw can relax and stop clenching while you sleep.
Why does my jaw hurt more in the morning?
You have little control over your movements while you sleep, so nighttime clenching is a common cause of morning jaw pain.
How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice relief soon after they start wearing their guard. We’ll check in and adjust it if needed.
Your next chapter starts here
We’re ready when you are.
Find a time that works for you and get to know our Westport team.